A MOTHER and daughter who have both had battles with cancer are hoping a Hartland fundraiser will bring in thousands of pounds for charity.

The Midsummer Charity Weekend at Hartland Abbey is taking place from June 24 to 26 to raise funds for Cancer Research and the North Devon Hospice.

The weekend of events, which takes place every three years, started around 10 years ago after a group talking at the pub decided to organise a ball.

Since then the fundraiser has bought in more than £120,000.

Mum and daughter, Sheila Arkless, 57, and Kelly Olde, 32, from the village have both been on the organising committee and also had personal battles with cancer.

Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2007, aged 29, and when she was seven months pregnant with her first child.

Less than three weeks after William was born Kelly had to start chemotherapy.

She had a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation and the first part of reconstruction surgery in March 2009.

A year ago she had to have a second mastectomy and reconstruction surgery.

Her mum, Sheila Arkless, was diagnosed with breast cancer in November, 2008, and had a lumpectomy and radiotherapy.

In July, 2009, she was diagnosed with stomach cancer and it was removed before she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer last October.

She continues on chemotherapy and Kelly said she had maintained her cheerful humour throughout the last two extremely tough years.

Kelly said: "Cancer is common, as we sadly all know. Cancer Research UK is constantly working to develop better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat this disease.

"It is because of this research I now have around a 90 per cent chance of seeing my son grow up – that is pretty amazing if you ask me."

Kelly admits not everyone may be as positive as her, but believes that is where the North Devon Hospice plays a significant role.

She said: "The hospice is an amazing place. From the moment you walk through the door there is an overwhelming feeling of warmth and friendliness. They provide excellent specialist care and support to people with life threatening illnesses, and importantly also, to their families and friends. This is completely free of charge."

The three-day extravaganza kicks off on Friday, June 24, with the midsummer charity ball, which sold out within hours of the £85 tickets going on sale.

Hartland Abbey will host the Last Night of the Proms on Saturday, June 25 from 7pm with a performance from The Three Sopranos.

Tickets cost £35 and include a three course dinner and champagne bar and are available from Donna Weeks on 01237 441996.

The following day the Abbey will open its doors from 11.30am until 5pm for a country fayre and farmers' market.

Stallholders can contact Tina Morgan on 01237 441077 to book. For more information about the events visit www.abbeymidsummer.com.