A Dorset charity which gives financial assistance to local families struggling because of cancer has been able to appoint a manager, thanks to a mystery donor.

Lauren Thatcher joined Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) this month to help the charity re-start its grant programme.

It was put on hold by the Covid pandemic.

The salary for Lauren’s full-time position for the next two years will be paid by a donor.

The mystery person approached the charity to offer help but wishes to remain anonymous.

Chris Thomas, DCCF Chairman, said: “The pandemic has been extremely tough for DCCF, as most of our grants to families are funded through our events.

“However, we aim to get back to giving financial assistance imminently.

“To to be able to appoint an exceptional manager like Lauren to oversee this is a huge boost to DCCF.”

New manager Lauren has a background in aviation and worked as cabin crew for Ryanair and for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Last year, she spent six months nursing her terminally-ill mother through her own cancer battle.

Lauren said: “Sadly, most of us have been touched by cancer in some form.

“I was glad to be there and able to help nurse my mother through her final months.

“When I saw that DCCF was advertising for a manager, and learned about its work supporting families who are really struggling under a cancer diagnosis, I jumped at the chance to be involved.

“We kicked off our fundraising events again last month with our Black Tie Dinner at the Bournemouth Hilton, which raised a staggering £59,000.

“Our supporters and fundraisers are a truly exceptional group of people of all ages and backgrounds, from across the county.

“With the money raised from our regular coffee mornings, larger events and those organised by our supporters, we are thrilled to be able to start making cash grants again to families who need it, from this month.

“I’m absolutely over the moon to be working for such an amazing charity making a real difference to people’s lives.”

• dccf.co.uk