BBC weather presenter Judith Ralston was joined by a group of young carol-singers at a charity event to raise much-needed funds for people with cancer.
Judith was surrounded by pupils from Jordanhill School as she switched on the Christmas tree lights at the Cancer Support Scotland Centre in Glasgow's West End to launch the charity’s ‘Message in a Bauble’ fund-raising appeal.
Judith, an ambassador for Cancer Support Scotland, said: “For many people affected by cancer, Christmas is not a time of festive cheer as they often find themselves concerned for loved ones and fearful for the future.
“This is where Cancer Support Scotland can help by offering complementary and talking therapies, providing support to people who are anxious or feeling stressed due to a cancer diagnosis.
“All the services offered by Cancer Support Scotland are free and demand for them has risen by nearly 40% this year alone as more people are diagnosed earlier and living longer.
“The much needed funds raised at events like this are essential for the continued success of the charity.”
Cancer Support Scotland provides a wide range of free services including talking therapy (counselling), aromatherapy, reiki, Indian head massage, reflexology, deep tissue massage and stress management. Chiropody and nail care services are also available.
Judith Ralston, Cancer Support Scotland ambassador:“For many people affected by cancer, Christmas is not a time of festive cheer as they often find themselves concerned for loved ones and fearful for the future.
“This is where Cancer Support Scotland can help by offering complementary and talking therapies, providing support to people who are anxious or feeling stressed due to a cancer diagnosis.
“All the services offered by Cancer Support Scotland are free and demand for them has risen by nearly 40% this year alone as more people are diagnosed earlier and living longer."
Chief Executive Colin Graham said: “Judith is a tremendous supporter of Cancer Support Scotland and we greatly appreciate her backing.
“All our services are free and we depend on public and business donations and legacies to provide them. The fayre, for example, was sponsored by engineering consultants Amec Foster Wheeler and we’re very grateful for their support.
“I’d like to urge as many people as possible to donate to our ‘Message in a Bauble’ appeal. It’s a seasonal way to dedicate support to a family member or friend while, at the same time, helping us provide services to people all the year round.”
Judith added: “The ‘Message in a Bauble’ containing the message to a loved one will be hung on the tree.
"It costs a minimum of £10 to dedicate a bauble, with the proceeds going to help Cancer Support Scotland maintain its valuable services.
"You can dedicate baubles to anyone you like - a family member, spouse, friend, or even a beloved pet.”
* Anyone wishing to dedicate a ‘Message in a Bauble’ or seeking more information on Cancer Support Scotland should call 0141 337 8199, Freephone 0800 652 4531 or visit www.cancersupportscotland.org
