A FUND set up in memory of a Devizes woman who lost her fight against cancer in 2013 has donated £78,000 to two charities close to her heart.

Helen Straker was a big supporter of both Dorothy House Hospice Care and the Royal United Hospital’s Cancer Care Campaign.

Last week £39,000 was presented to each of the causes by businessman Gordon Straker in her memory at The Bear Hotel, Devizes.

This year’s fundraising total by the Helen Straker Charity was raised at a number of events including an annual golf day in July and clay pigeon shoot in September.

Mr Straker continues Helen’s impressive fundraising efforts for The Helen Straker Charity which was officially registered in 2014.

Mr Straker, trustee of the Helen Straker Charity said: “My thanks to all the companies, individuals and sponsors who supported our charity this year. Well done to all involved it’s a great achievement.

“We are proud to have raised £78,000 in funds for Helen’s two chosen charities this year as her aim in life was to help others and it is very satisfying to be able to continue her legacy as she would have wished.”

Phillippa Watson, Philanthropy Manager at Dorothy House Hospice Care said: “Many congratulations to the charity for raising such significant funds once again in 2019, it is greatly appreciated and will help Dorothy House continue to provide specialist care for people living with a life-limiting illness.

“We are extremely grateful to Gordon Straker, the charity Trustees and to the Devizes Lions Club this year for all their hard work.” Dorothy House cared for Helen during her battle with cancer .

Jan Witt from The Forever Friends Appeal said: “I would like to thank the trustees for raising funds for the RUH’s pioneering new Cancer Centre which will provide a highly beneficial healing environment, transforming care for patients and their families.”

Part of the new unit will be named in memory of Helen.