FAMILY, friends and colleagues of Elenor McAndrew are being invited to a party being thrown to thank her for her service at The Welcome at Longridge.

Elenor is recovering well following surgery for bowel cancer, and said farewell last week to the community hub after eight years as the centre’s cook.

The centre wanted to have a farewell party for Elenor, who lives in Knutsford, and suggested it could provide the opportunity to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

As a result The Welcome is to host an afternoon tea in honour of Elenor on Friday, September 13, from 1.30pm to 2.30pm, with donations being invited for Macmillan.

The Macmillan funds will also be boosted by Welcome customer Judy Clifford, who is to have her head shaved by her daughter at the centre at the afternoon tea to add to the charity funds.

Welcome manager Sarah Riley said: “After eight years of amazing service by Elenor to The Welcome we're throwing a party to say thank you.

“She has been a huge part of The Welcome, and we couldn't let her go without celebrating her contribution to our success.

“Elenor is a big part of the community and all are welcome to come along and wish her well.

“We will be throwing an afternoon tea with freshly-baked scones, cakes and sandwiches and a tombola, with donations going to Macmillan Cancer Support - a charity which is very close to Elenor's heart.

“Our lovely customer Judy Clifford, a volunteer at the Knit and Natter Group, will also be shaving her head to raise even more cash for MacMillan in support of family members who have been affected by cancer.”

Elenor said: “Having experienced first-hand how cancer affects not only you but the people around you I'm determined to turn a negative experience into something positive.

“Macmillan helped me both emotionally and practically and I'm delighted to be able to give something back.”

Judy said: “Two close family members have been affected by cancer recently so I wanted to help raise awareness and support a great charity. If one person goes and gets checked out it will be worth it.”

Anyone wishing to donate beforehand can do so at justgiving.com/fundraising/judyisgoingbald

Elenor’s role has been taken over by The Welcome chef Dave Burgess.