Colleagues at community stores across the Ards and North Down area have donated over £4,000 to Brainwaves NI, following fundraising events held at stores throughout the area.

Sarah and Clare Gilliland who are team members at EUROSPAR Kircubbin nominated the charity after they lost their brother John to brain cancer a few years ago. Alongside their wider team, the sisters organised a sponsored pyjama day in-store, while also clocking up the miles on an exercise bike for 18 hours.

Over in Newtownards, the EUROSPAR Hardford Link team were supporting their colleague Amanda Adams, whose son James (4) was recently diagnosed with a brain tumour. To his delight, his mum and her colleagues dressed up as his favourite superheroes for the day, bringing a smile to his and everyone’s face who visited the shop.

In total, over £4,500 was raised by the teams, with additional funds donated by surrounding stores in the area throughout the month of May.

Area Manager, Gavin Neill commented; “We are very proud to have been able to support our team members who are facing extremely challenging circumstances with the loss of their brother, and the diagnosis of little James. As well as supporting them within their roles in store, we’re pleased to have such generous staff and shoppers who have given their time and money towards this initiative, resulting in over £4,000 going towards a great charity.”

Brainwaves NI is Northern Ireland’s only brain tumour charity, aiming to provide support for brain tumour patients, their families and carers, while raising awareness of brain tumours and funding vital research to help find a cure for brain cancer.

£4,500 could enable the charity to provide eight families in extreme need with financial assistance in the future, which, for example, could help with travel costs to get treatment. Accepting the cheque on behalf of Brainwaves NI was Chairman, Colin McMillan.