This is Staffordshire --TWO schoolgirls have raised money for charity after selling items from a makeshift stall in memory of their teacher.
Friends Saffron Matthews and Olivia Talbot say they plan to do more fund-raising for the Blurton-based Douglas Macmillan Hospice after the success of their first effort.
The kind-hearted duo were inspired to support the charity after their teaching assistant Michelle Wood lost her battle with cancer in June last year.
The nine-year-olds, who attend Fenton's Our Lady's Catholic Primary School, also each have a grandparent suffering from the illness.
At the weekend the pair collected items including sweets, toiletries, toys and clothing and put them up for sale in their neighbourhood.
Saffron, from Fenton, who suffers from diabetes, said: "Michelle was always really friendly. We wanted to do something to help people who have got cancer at the moment and the ones who have been fortunate enough to recover.
"We also wanted to help the Douglas Macmillan Hospice with the work they do."
Saffron's grandfather, Brian Simpson, had an operation in May after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.
The 74-year-old, who lives in Lincolnshire, is currently recuperating.
Saffron's mum Chris Simpson, of Marlborough Street, said: "The girls told me they wanted to raise some money for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and then just got on with selling things – I think they had a few pairs of my shoes! I am really proud of them."
Mother-of-two Michelle lived in Nelson Street, Fenton.
It is understood that while Michelle was unwell both her children were attending Our Lady's. Since her death the school has set up a memorial garden.
Chris, aged 34, who works as a support worker, added: "Michelle was lovely and was just so kind and caring with the children."
Meanwhile, Olivia's grandfather Gordon Amison is battling cancer for the second time. The 73-year-old, of Hanley, was diagnosed with lung cancer four years ago which he overcame after an operation.
But four months ago, medics confirmed he had prostrate cancer and would need to undergo chemotherapy.
Olivia, from Fenton, said: "We came up with the idea of doing a sale to raise money by selling some unwanted items.
"I think we will do some more fund-raising after having done this."
Olivia's mum Sarah Talbot, aged 39, also of Marlborough Street, said: "It brought a tear to my eye when she said she wanted to raise the money for the Douglas Macmillan for her grandad.
"I am so proud of the both of them for everything that they have done." Reported by This is 23 hours ago.