Cancer Connections : help, support,advice and information for South Tyneside, North East.

Mrs Haswell died earlier this month after a battle with lung cancer and pals wanted to do something to remember her by.

As well as the cash, the group has also donated a painting to Cancer Connections.

The seascape was painted and given by Graham Hodgson, from Hawthorn Arts, and will now hang in the charity’s new bungalow.

Wendy Fortune, one of the charity’s co-founders and committee members, said: “The picture was originally supposed to hang in the library but it has been donated to the house in dedication to Ann.

“As part of that, they handed over £500 to the charity. Ann was clearly a very popular, loved and well-thought-of lady.”

Val Dunnington, treasurer of the Friends of South Shields Library, said: “We have always supported Cancer Connections and decided to give the picture to the charity as another member of the group had cancer.

“In the meantime, Ann was diagnosed so it was all the more reason why we should give to the charity.

“It’s lovely to think the painting, which has had a valuation of £1,500, will hang in its new base.”

Mrs Fortune added: “It’s very, very moving that people are so in tune with us and want to put everything they can into our house.

“I get a lump in my throat at times when I think about what people are doing for us – they are so generous.

“I am very dedicated to the charity but when I hear all these lovely things, I am very humbled.”

To make a donation or for more information, call Cancer Connections on 456 5081. Alternatively, you can donate at the charity Justgiving page here.