Melanoma Me annual ball goes virtual in memory of skin cancer battler Amanda Seymour

The Melanoma Me Charity Ball is held every year to help raise vital funds for the Washington-based charity.

But with lockdown in place and no end to covid restrictions expected before next year, the event was held virtually.

Despite the setback, members of the community raised a total of £2,020 for the charity, which supports people going through skin cancer battles.

The ball is held each year in memory of Amanda Seymour, from Pelton, County Durham, who tragically lost her battle with skin cancer in 2017, at the age of 42.

Before her death, Amanda worked closely with Melanoma Me to help share her story and encourage people to raise awareness of Melanoma.

Despite being postponed twice this year because of coronavirus regulations, Melanoma Me founder Kerry Prudhoe was determined for the ball to take place.

She said: “Because the ball had been cancelled twice this year due to Covid, we had no alternative with Over 90 prizes to give away to adapt it to a virtual ball. We asked people who would have attended to get dressed up and raise a toast in support to us and to get involved in some games.

“The pandemic has caused such financial distress to so many people. Small charities in particular are really struggling throughout this financial crisis, so if you can please continue to share your love and support as it’s never been a more important time to help local charities as we are really struggling to keep afloat at a time when our essential services have never been more in demand."

The online ball featured live music, games and a raffle to raise money for the charity with hundreds of people tuning in to pledge their support.

Melanoma Me works with over 100 North East organisations, facilitating drop in’s and workshops, ensuring enough is done to prevent the disease and also regularly visits schools to raise awareness of the disease.

Earlier this year, over 100 people took part in a socially distanced big walk for the charity to continue their support despite the coronavirus pandemic.

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