Put the kettle on for Macmillan Cancer Support!

Macmillan Cancer Support, with the help of First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, have launched the World's Biggest Coffee Morning.

Last year thousands of people across the UK took part in coffee mornings, raising around £8million for Macmillan. This year we are again urging people across Northern Ireland to get involved by putting the on the kettle on Friday 24 September.

Speaking at the launch In Parliament Buildings, Peter Robinson said: “In the UK today one in three people are affected by cancer and two million people have cancer or have experienced it.

“Many people have a personal experience of the disease and the hardship it brings to both the patient and their families. That is why it is crucial to support cancer charities, so that they can continue to give vital help and support to those most in need.”

Macmillan Cancer Support is there for people from the moment they are diagnosed, with medical and practical help, as well as emotional and financial support.

Martin McGuinness said: “We are honoured to be here to support the coffee morning and would urge local people to do the same either by attending a coffee morning or by hosting their own.

“It's an easy and fun way to raise money for Macmillan, and every penny you raise will help people with cancer.”

This year the charity hopes to raise £240,000 to help fund vital cancer services in Northern Ireland.

Macmillan’s Fundraising Intern for Northern Ireland Sorcha Chipperfield, said: “We realise that in this current economic climate it is difficult for people to give to charity but for the price of just one coffee you can make a big difference.

“So put a smile on your mug and help Macmillan reach more people affected by cancer in your area.”

“If you can’t do it on September 24 just pick another day, if you’re not keen on coffee and would rather have cocktails or even herbal tea then that’s fine as well. All that matters is that you take part.”

To register to host a coffee morning of visit the Macmillan website or or call 0845 602 1246.

Notes to editors:

1. For more information about the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning or to organise an interview with someone from Macmillan, contact Michelle Gallacher on 0131 260 3720 or on mgallacher@macmillan.org.uk.
2. Media queries to OFMDFM Press Office 028 9037 8201. Out of hours contact pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.