A pioneering research programme inspired by a woman who lost her battle with small cell ovarian cancer more than three years ago is in full flight thanks to an army of fundraisers.

The family of Biggleswade woman Angela Butcher – who spent her last days fundraising to initiate research to help others – only found out that their daughter had inspired the Angela’s Small Cell Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at The Eve Appeal a little over a month ago, but already the community has rallied around them to lend their support.

One fundraising event that hit the bull’s-eye was a 24-hour darts marathon at the Gardeners Arms at the end of May, which raised more than £2,380 for the cause.

The marathon challenge – which was organised by Paul Papworth – saw hosts Jan and Chris Hermit welcome 11 players to their Biggleswade pub for a non-stop day and night of darts.

Many of the players had previously taken part in a sponsored head or body shave at the Potton Road pub to support Angela when she was undergoing chemotherapy in 2012, and this gave a huge boost towards the first £10,000 of Angela’s Fund.

Once all sponsorship money is collected in, the darts marathon will spiral the fund towards £50,000.

The fundraising does not stop there however, with Kim Biggs completing her sponsored Colour Rush last Saturday – raising £400 in the process – while Angela’s family will be holding a car boot sale at G & M Growers, near Upper Caldecote, on Sunday.

Turn to page 3 to read more about the 24-hour darts marathon.