Open + Direct provides a helping hand for McMillan

Staff at financial Services company, Open + Direct have handed over a cheque for £6,500 to Macmillan Cancer relief.

The money, which will be used to help ease the burden of patients experiencing financial difficulties during their illness, was raised by Open + Direct staff who hosted a number of fundraising events.

John Laverty, Chairperson of the Charities Committee at Open and Direct said: "The staff generously donated their time to organise these events and on many occasions they were supported by family and friends. We are very pleased to be handing over this money, on their behalf, to Macmillan Cancer Relief. The money will help cancer patients right across Northern Ireland."

Una Moran, Corporate Development Manager, Macmillan Cancer Relief said: "People with cancer sometimes find that they have extra costs to meet as a result of their illness. For those who are on a low income or have to give up work during their treatment, this can create financial difficulties.

"For some people with cancer, money worries can be as distressing as cancer itself and this donation from Open + Direct will go towards easing that pressure."

Since 1999, the total amount raised for good causes by Open + Direct is well in excess of £40,000 from Company and Charitable donations.

Substantial donations to charitable organisations have included NI Hospice Children's Service, Macmillan Cancer Relief and also a host of local charities.

(SP)