A Slimming World group serving Royston and the surrounding areas has collected more than 230 bags of clothing that no longer fit to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The Roysia groups’ members encouraged friends and family to spring clean their wardrobes and help stock the Biggleswade Cancer Research UK shop, as part of the organisation’s national campaign – ‘Big Slimming World Clothes Throw’.

The Roysia group members have collectively lost an impressive 120 stone since January this year.

Last year the campaign raise £1.7 million for Cancer Research UK, and this year Slimming World aim to raise £2m.

Consultant for Slimming World in Roysia, Lesley Thornalley-Grey, said: “The incredible members of our local groups have amazed me with their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment once again!

“This year’s Big Clothes Throw has been a fantastic success, and I can’t believe just how many bags our members, their friends and families have managed to collect for Cancer Research UK.

“It’s been so rewarding and I’m so proud to help pull together such a phenomenal amount of stock for such a worthwhile cause.

“Knowing they’ll never need their ‘before’ clothes again, when I told my group about the campaign they couldn’t wait to take part.

“Not only is the clothes throw a perfect opportunity for all of us to celebrate our slimming success, it is also vital we spread the message that keeping a healthy weight could reduce the risk of developing ten different types of cancer.

“We really hope our bag collection will help to increase understanding of how weight affects cancer risk.”

With each bag being is worth up to £25, Lesley hopes the Roysia group can make a significant contribution to the national goal.

Alison Walker, manager of the Biggleswade branch of Cancer Research UK, said: “We’re really grateful to all the Royston and surrounding area Slimming World members who cleared out their cupboards and generously donated their unwanted items to Cancer Research UK shops.

“All funds raised will go towards the charity’s research to beat over 200 types of cancer, helping to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.”

The Slimming World Roysia group meets every Thursday at 7.30pm at Roysia Middle School. To find out about other local groups visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk.