THE BARRY BUDDIES Friends of Tenovus group has received a special certificate of commendation after its members raised more than £18,000 for the charity.
The group was created by long-time friends Sue Cummings and Vivienne Sanders, who initially became involved with the charity when they joined the Barry Tenovus ‘Sing with Us’ choir, and they went on to form Barry Buddies Friends of Tenovus because they wanted to raise funds and awareness in the community.
Tenovus Cancer Care is a Welsh charity that provides information on prevention, funds research and supports patients and their families. It was established in 1943 by 10 businessmen (hence the ‘ten of us’), and during the last 81 years the charity has funded scientists who have contributed to discoveries that have helped treat and care for millions of cancer patients around the world.
One of the best-known examples came in 1975, when researchers showed that a contraceptive pill could halt the growth of breast cancers, leading to the development of Tamoxifen, which is now taken by millions of women worldwide.
Sue and Vivienne began selling items from a small stall at the market on Holton Road, and they then expanded to afternoon tea events at Barry Island Sports and Social Club.
Sue, a retired court service worker, explained how the pandemic forced them to rethink their strategy and develop different ways of raising money: “The lockdowns and the social distancing rules meant Vivienne and I had to come up with new ways of raising money. We certainly didn’t want to stop but we were forced to improvise.
“Afternoon tea and other social events couldn’t happen, and activity in the market was severely restricted, so we turned our attention to selling things online. People were very supportive and entered into the spirit of things during the pandemic. For example, they’d pick up a mirror from us and they’d give us two bags of things to sell in return.
“Our house was overrun with donations and it was driving my husband up the wall! We couldn’t move our furniture because there was stuff propped up behind it, but it just goes to show how generous the Barry Buddies and other local people are.
“People helped in different ways. Lots of local businesses have been supportive, including other members of the Barry Sing with Us choir, the local Barry Island traders and the market inspector at Holton Road.
“I’d also like to thank Barry Island café owner Marco Zeraschi and events host Dean Caldwell. Nothing is ever too much trouble – Vivienne and I are immensely grateful for all they do for us,” she said.
The Barry Buddies have raised £18,400 for the charity and they have received a special commendation certificate for their efforts. Tenovus Cancer Care south east regional fundraising manager Erica Willmott said: “We are incredibly grateful to all the Barry Buddies for the funds raised and for all their work to support us over the years.
“It is an incredible amount and is testament to how well thought of the group is by the local community. This money is equivalent to covering the cost of our support line, which gives information and advice to people affected by cancer, for six weeks.”
By MARCUS STEAD – Reporter – 📩
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