A SERIES of fundraising events are to be held next month in memory of an Ipswich Hospital worker who died from cancer at the age of 33.Michelle Bown , who worked in the operating theatres, lost her battle against skin cancer in March and a group of her colleagues are planning to raise money for The Willow Foundation.

A SERIES of fundraising events are to be held next month in memory of an Ipswich Hospital worker who died from cancer at the age of 33.

Michelle Bown , who worked in the operating theatres, lost her battle against skin cancer in March and a group of her colleagues are planning to raise money for The Willow Foundation.

The charity arranges special days out for seriously ill people aged 16 to 40, and treated Mrs Bown and her mother to a weekend in London shortly before she died.

Romilly Norman, a former colleague of Mrs Bown, said: “We were all devastated when Michelle passed away. She was a great friend and colleague and we wanted to do something to remember her.

“She was a big supporter of The Willow Foundation and they did a lot for her so we want to do what we can to help them out.”

Mrs Norman and her colleagues are planning a weekend of activities, including a fancy dress party and auction of promises, in September.

Mrs Bown's husband John, of Rushmere St Andrew, said: “I think it's a great idea. Michelle had an amazing weekend in London thanks to the charity.

“She went with her mum and they were taken to see Guys and Dolls, had a trip on the London Eye and were treated like stars all weekend with first-class travel and a limousine to chauffeur them around.

“Before her death Michelle said she would like all donations from her funeral to go to them and we raised more than £2000 which helped to pay for two people from this area to go and see Westlife and meet them backstage.

“I know she would be really pleased that these events are taking place.”

The first event will be a fancy dress party with a TV and movie star theme at the St Clement's sports and social club on Friday September 22 from 7pm to midnight. It will include an auction of people and prizes and tickets cost £7.

There will be a fun day at Northgate sports centre on Sunday September 24 from 11am to 4pm, which will include a five-a-side competition, traditional sports day races, a children's fancy dress competition and a barbecue. Admission is free.

To book tickets for the party or donate a gift for the auction call Romilly on 01473 412539 or Gail on 01473 683769.

WEBLINK: www.willowfoundation.org.uk