A KIND hearted Vale woman gave up receiving presents for her 50th birthday and asked friends and family to instead make a donation to a charity close to her heart.

Carole Bretherton, who lives in Wadborough, raised more than £1,200 for Cancer Research with the gesture.

She even hosted a birthday garden party, titled burger off cancer, for the milestone event at her home with everyone giving a donation.

The event was made even more poignant by the absence of a guest who would usually share the celebrations.

Mrs Bretherton's brother in law Scott Palmer, who has just celebrated his 46th birthday, was unable to attend as he is currently bed bound with terminal bowel cancer.

His wife Keeley Palmer, best known as the clerk of Evesham Town Council, said she was touched by the thoughtful nature of her sister-in-law.

"This charity is very dear to her as close family and friends are battling cancer and this was Carole's way of doing something positive for CRUK," said Mrs Palmer.

"Her party, burger off cancer, attracted more than 60 people and all enjoyed a generous spread of burgers, sausages and salmon.

"It was supposed to be a joint party but Scott can't do it. We always celebrate them together.

"The party was nearly cancelled as the night before there had been tremendous thunder storms with torrential downpours all morning,however, just as the party kicked off at 3pm the clouds parted and the sun shone.

"Thank you to Carole. We truly are blessed to have someone as wonderful and caring as Carole in our lives and let's hope the £1,200 plus she raised can help research into one day, finding a cure for all cancer."