BRA dashes held across the Island in April have made almost £20,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer Group Isle of Man.

The event, sponsored by Bank of Scotland, saw around 300 people walk or run in decorated bras or fancy dress through the streets of Douglas, Peel, Castletown and Ramsey.

Dashes in Douglas and Peel were started by celebrity astrologer Russell Grant, wearing a bra, cape and crown displaying the signs of the zodiac.

On Saturday 11th October, dash organisers Angie Aire (Douglas), Ian Baker (Peel), Debbie Taylor (Ramsey) and Tracy Clayton (Castletown) presented combined sponsorship of £19,481 to the charity.

They far exceeded their 2008 target of £15,000 and, in total, have raised more than £64,000 in four years for Breakthrough Breast Cancer Group.

Charity representatives Barbara Thorn, Kim Makin, Lindsay Quayle and Gill Low received a cheque at their awareness stall outside Marks and Spencer in Strand Street, Douglas.

Store manager Kenny Marshall was there to give his support to the charity and the annual bra dashes. The winner of the 2008 Douglas dash was M&S worker Neil Wade, who ran with colleagues.

The group was joined by Linda Corlett and Morven Phythian, who raised more than £1,000 towards the total by completing a sponsored walk from Ramsey to Peel.

Angie said this year's dashes had enjoyed the biggest turnouts yet, and made the most cash.
She said: 'Breakthrough Breast Cancer's vision is a future free from the fear of breast cancer. The money raised will fund vital research, campaigning and education work.'

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual international health campaign.
Angie encouraged people to get involved by holding a Pink Day fundraiser at their workplace, local pub, club or school, for example by dressing up in pink or holding a pink cake sale.
For more information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, contact Angie Aire on 498864.

'Breakthrough's research centre are working hard in finding a prevention, a cure and the best possible treatment for all breast cancer patients so more people like me can survive this disease.
'I would not be here today without vital treatment, surgery and support from Nobles Hospital, Clatterbridge Hospital, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, Hospice, Manx Cancer Help, Breast Care (IOM) Group and of course my family & friends.'

Please keep your funds coming in which may be by cheque (payable to Breakthrough Breast Cancer IOM), or cash to:
Angie Aire
Bank of Scotland Int.
Evergreen House
43 Circular Road
Douglas

Thanks again Dashers and see you all in 2009!
Angie Aire
498864