A CANCER trust in Dorset is thanking supporters after it handed out more than £20,000 to cancer support groups in 2024.

Ducks and Drakes, founded in 2012, was created to raise awareness of cancer and specifically bowel cancer in those aged 18 to 30.

The trust supports cancer patients and their families through the provision of specialist medical equipment and financial aid.

Ducks and Drakes was founded in 2012 by Andrew Drake and his family following the bowel cancer diagnosis of Andrew at just 24.

READ MORE: Plans for new Heart of Wessex region – and mayor – could delay Wiltshire polls

READ MORE: Wincanton Boxing Day Races: Course gears up for busiest meeting of the year

A spokesperson said it has seen “incredible” support this year, with supporters and donors organising events to raise funds throughout the year.

Groups that helped raise money for the trust in 2024 include NFU Mutual North Dorset, Puddletown RFC and Dorchester Town FC Lottery Stags.

Thanks to the success of the fundraising events, the trust has handed out £23,750 this year.

The donation to Mosiac will help the charity continue their essential support to young people in Dorset Picture: Ducks and Drakes

This includes £5,000 to Fortuneswell Unit, and Marjorie Brewer, joint honorary secretary at Fortuneswell Cancer Trust said: “As a volunteer-run organisation, we ensure that donations like this go directly to supporting patient care.”

£5,000 was also donated to Dorset County Hospital.

The head of the charity, Simon Pearson said: “Our heartfelt thanks to all at Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust for their extraordinary support towards our cancer services.

Money given to Weldmar Hospice will be spent on a new IT system Picture: Ducks and Drakes

“This wonderful donation takes the total they have donated in support of Dorset County Hospital to over £200,000!”

Weldmar Hospice was given £5,000 to fund the use of a revolutionary new IT system that will allow Weldmar’s doctors to prescribe medicines at the Inpatient Unit or remotely.

Mosaic, a charity that provides support for bereaved children, was also given £8,750 to help the charity continue their essential support to young people in Dorset.

Annette Drake, Ducks and Drakes co-founder, said: “2024 has been an incredible year of community support that has allowed us to make significant donations to local cancer patients and vital local cancer services.

“Thanks to our amazing supporters, we’ve been able to fund everything from specialist medical equipment to complementary therapies, family support services, and innovative healthcare technology.

“Every fundraiser, from our local sports clubs to individual supporters taking on personal challenges, has helped make a real difference to cancer patients across Dorset.”