Barkingside Mum raises 10k for breast cancer

A MUM who beat breast cancer says she is “overwhelmed” to have raised �10,000 for people with the illness for the second year in a row.

Despite holding the black tie bash in a time of economic hardship, Elise Cirsch of Barkingside equalled her fundraising total of 2009.

The 45-year-old said: “I was so surprised. I had to idea I could do it.”

Mum-of-two Mrs Cirsch – who was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2008 – handed over the cheque for �10,000 to Tracey Krieger of charity breast cancer care earlier this month.

She raised the money during a ball held in October in Waltham Forest.

A disco, auction, casino and raffle saw thousands of pounds roll in for the good cause, with signed goodies courtesy of Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur football clubs helping to lift the total.

Mrs Cirsch, mum to 18-year-old Lauren and 16-year-old Natalie, paid tribute to her daughters for their help in putting together a presentation during the evening showing why the fundraiser had been set up.

The founder of charity Premiere Pink said: “It was a fantastic evening, absolutely brilliant.

“Hopefully the people that have been to both balls will support whatever function we do next.”