An Oxfordshire-based breast cancer charity has been awarded £1,000 by housebuilder Persimmon Homes in order to maintain its vital work in helping beat the killer disease.

Formed in Abingdon 30 years ago by married couple Dr Anthony Leatham, a pathologist, and Patricia Leatham, a former breast cancer nurse, Against Breast Cancer funds research into new treatments, early diagnosis and patient advice.

On behalf of the charity, trustee Jeanne Chattoe said: “We want to increase the survival rates of all breast cancer patients and, ultimately, discover a vaccine. I have lost a sister and mother to breast cancer, and been diagnosed twice myself, so I know the heartbreak it brings.”

Jeanne and her associates are the driving force behind Witney in the Pink – an annual fixture in the local calendar, which sees the whole town turn pink with shop displays and parades helping to spread the word.

On receiving the news, Jeanne said: “That's fantastic, I’m absolutely delighted. Thank you so much.”

For more information about Persimmon’s Community Champions programme, including details of how to apply for support, visit: https://www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions