AN assistant at Sainsbury’s in Kidderminster got her colleagues on board with a bag pack to raise money for charities that supported her through breast cancer.

Patricia Branford, 59, was diagnosed with cancer a year ago and has since undergone a full mastectomy along with breast reconstruction surgery.

She decided to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and Kidderminster Breast Care Trust after they took care of her during her traumatic time.

With the help of family, friends and colleagues Mrs Branford raised £720, which will be split equally between the two charities.

She said she chose to divide the money as there were so many people that helped her during her illness. After her operation she ballooned due to steroids and Macmillan were able to offer her a grant to buy new clothes. The Kidderminster Breast Care Trust also offered Pat help and advice whenever she needed it.

Mrs Branford, who has worked for the company for more than 15 years, said: “I would like to thank everyone that helped and bag packed for us on April 17. Sainsbury’s have been brilliant to me during the time that I was off sick. Bag packing is a great way to help our loyal customers, and their generous donations will be greatly appreciated and change many lives.”