Nikki Hatt, beauty therapist at The Blue Room, Clinton Place, was inspired to get involved after her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last year.

The 25-year-old took part in Race for Life last year and was this year joined by members of staff for the challenge, which saw them raise £1,000 for breast cancer.

To help raise further monies on Friday the salon had an open day and Nikki's mum, Becky Hatt, was invited along as a guest to represent cancer sufferers.

Staff dressed in pink for the occasion, took donations for charity and gave a percentage of their takings from the day to the cause.

Nikki said, "I took part in the Race for Life last year before mum was diagnosed. I decided to take part again this year and we had T-shirts printed and raised a good amount.

"This month (October] we have been putting posters up saying we are looking for more support and on Friday we held the open day.

"My mum has finished her chemotherapy at the beginning of this year, she is still under the hospital at the moment but is back to work full-time and is on the road to recovery.

"After mum was diagnosed you speak to people and realise that so many people know someone that has cancer or has been affected by it. The hospital did such a great job and it is nice to raise money to go towards helping them and to help research into the disease."

Her mother Becky, who works at the Downs Leisure Centre, said, "It is not just us that has to go through it, it is the family as well.

"I have had great support and the hospital has been fantastic. Everyone has been supportive.

"I think most people are scared of the word 'cancer' but not a lot of people look at me and think 'she has been ill'. The most traumatic bit was the chemo.

"It is hard to talk about it but I am happy to talk to others about my experience.

"I tried to stay focused throughout the treatment and it's only now that it's hitting me.

"I think it is absolutely fantastic that Nikki is doing this — she has been marvellous. I have three girls and they have all been fantastic and do their bit."