A DAUGHTER and mother are hosting a Christmas charity event to raise cancer awareness.

Amy Knight, 37, and Susan Murray, 63, of Wembley Avenue, Mayland are putting on a carolling night at Blackwater Bistro on December 19.

The event is inspired by the festive cheer which saw Amy through her mother’s cancer diagnosis.

Mrs Knight said she was devastated when she found out about her mum’s illness a few months ago.

She said: “We found out about the cancer in September.

“My mum went for one of her routine check-ups and they called and asked for another one.

“They said they found a lump and we found out it was grade two breast cancer.

“I was absolutely devastated; my mum was in shock as well.

“And this came at a time when my father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer too.

“To us, cancer is a huge part of our lives.

“But luckily she went in for an operation and had the lump removed.

“They said they have contained it so that’s good news.

“My mum has been lucky, and I think that we have all been quite lucky in hindsight.”

More than 15 businesses and hundreds of people have donated to the night so far, including Blackwater Bistro, Paul Masons estate agents, Nisa and singer Brad Luff.

Amy added: “It was my mum that spurred me on to do this event.

“We are putting this on for my mum and father-in-law and anyone who has been affected by cancer.

“There are so many people affected so this event really is for everyone.

“My mum is quite big on Christmas and so am I.

“So we thought why not put on an event at this time of year when families are together?

“I have to say thanks to Broomfield Hospital. They have been absolutely amazing – their care, the nurses – I can’t thank them enough.”

Amy also thanked everyone who donated and organiser Sandra Ross of Blackwater Bistro for making the venue available.

For more details, visit facebook.com/events/197288437875271.