Livestock Mart raises £33,000 as local people ‘flock’ to annual even to raise funds for local cancer charity
Markethill Livestock and Farm Sales has been a staple in the community for over 65 years and their annual Christmas show and sale, sponsored by NFU Mutual, is a highly anticipated event in the farming community. Last year, the event raised an incredible £33,000 for local charity, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. The cancer organisation is close to the owner’s heart, having lost their 1-year-old grandson Theo to cancer in 2021, and the family availed of the charity’s services during an incredibly difficult time.
Amy Muldrew, Manager at Markethill Livestock & Farm Sales said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support shown by our customers and staff at the Charity Christmas Show and Sale this year with so many reaching out to tell us of the incredible support this charity has provided. As a family, we have seen first-hand the incredible impact this charity has on local people affected by cancer and are so grateful to be able to continue to support their mission.”
The auction had everything from black ewe lambs to homemade apple tarts and the total raised is a testament to the generosity of those who attended, along with the incredible sales team at the mart who also donated their wages from the night to add to the overall total.
Richard Spratt, Chief Executive at Cancer Focus NI said: “We are blown away by the total raised and the support shown by the Markethill Livestock family along with staff and those who attended on the night. Without the support from local businesses and the wider community, we simply wouldn’t be able to support the 1 in 2 people in Northern Ireland who are on their cancer journey. This generous donation will make a lasting impact and ensure their journey is not a lonely one.”
Cancer Focus NI have launched a 5-year plan, that will see the organisation open five new bespoke Therapeutic Cancer Support Centres across Northern Ireland, with the first Centre opening in Enniskillen in May of 2025. With an aim to bring cancer care into the community and out of the hospital setting, the charity’s Cancer Support Centre project in County Fermanagh will be the first of its kind in the area. The Cancer Support Centres will deliver a number of vital support services including counselling, family support, specialist bra fitting, art therapy and a patient driving service to local people on their cancer journey.
To learn more about hosting an event for Cancer Focus NI or becoming a charity partner, get in touch with Meg McKeown at megmckeown@cancerfocusni.org or find out more about our services here.
