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Sept 2020

Arts & Culture

Summerbridge author's new book raises money for cancer charity

Published: 14 Sep 2020, 15:44 BST

Updated: 14 Sep 2020, 16:26 BST

by Suzannah Rogerson

Joe Bothamley from Summerbridge has written his first children's book during lockdown in an effort to raise money for a local children's cancer charity.

A Summerbridge man has written a children's book during lockdown to raise money for children's cancer charity Candlelighters.

The author, Joe Bothamley, connected with the charity after wanting to do some fundraising following his father's cancer diagnosis.

His parents suggested Candlelighters, which works with children and families dealing with cancer in Yorkshire.

The main message of the book, called The Secret of Hartwith Hill, is the value of community. The author was inspired by the new-found community spirit he saw during lockdown.

Joe said:

"The idea came at a time when my daughter wasn't getting into the bath and I was making up stories to distract her. I wanted to raise money for a cancer charity after my dad was diagnosed with stomach cancer. The response has been incredible - we raised £1,800 in the first three days and it's continuing to grow momentum.

"The work Candlelighters do is incredible; the decisions those families are making each day are unthinkable. I just hope the momentum continues to grow and we can raise more for them."

An art exhibition in Knaresborough is raising money for Harrogate's cancer centre.

Parents were "emotional" at the school gates last week as children returned to school for the first time in six months.

This is Joe's first book and was written while he was off work during lockdown.

Today is the first day the books are being sent out. The author hopes the fundraising can continue as he returns to his job as a painter and decorator.

The head of fundraising and marketing for Candlelighters, Leanne Windell, said:

"We’re touched that Joe has chosen to support Candlelighters in such a lovely and unique way. The coronavirus pandemic has had a catastrophic impact on our fundraising and we expect to lose £865,000 this year.

"It has been an incredibly difficult time for families affected by childhood cancer and it is crucial that, no matter what, we continue to support them, to ensure they are not facing these challenging times alone. Joe has made such a vital contribution to this effort and we are very thankful."

To buy the book and support Candlelighters, click here.

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Summerbridge author's new book raises money for cancer charity

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