A CHARITY ball organised by a cancer survivor,has smashed its target helping to raise over £90,000 to help vital work supporting those living with the disease.

Last month, over 500 people attended the Macmillan ‘Hopes and Dreams’ Ball at York Racecourse, now in its fifth year.

Matt Ascough, from Malton, organises the event every year - but it had to be postponed last year due to Covid regulations.

But, on September 25, the event was back with a bang - smashing Matt’s fundraising target of £75,000 hitting the £90,000 mark.

Matt, 34, said: “I am totally gobsmacked by this incredible amount, I want to thank everyone who has supported me.

“The ball itself was everything I could’ve wished for and more, from the moment the first guests arrived it was clear they were up for a party, there was a real buzz all night.”

In 2013, at the age of 26, Matt, a long-standing member of Macmillan’s York Fundraising Committee, was diagnosed with testicular cancer and was supported by a Macmillan nurse in the weeks after his diagnosis and surgery.

“Macmillan were there for me when I needed them most. My Macmillan nurse gave me a real lift. She gave me hope and that made a massive difference”, he said.

Becci Shanks Macmillan’s fundraising manager, said: “Everyone at Macmillan would like to extend our thanks and congratulate Matt on this incredible amount. It is testament to the hard work and passion Matt puts into the organisation of this fabulous event.”

All of the money raised will go towards Macmillan’s Yorkshire Appeal.