A YORK charity which raises money to support people with cancer and their families has received a major windfall.

York Theatre Royal teamed up with York Round Table to celebrate reaching its 2012 fundraising targets for York Against Cancer.

Pantomime dame Berwick Kaler and Round Table chairman Martin Frost presented the charity with a cheque for £10,000 onstage at the theatre last Thursday evening.

Patrick Shepherd, chairman of York Against Cancer, received the cheque, which will be used to purchase a respite holiday home in Whitby for cancer patients and their families.

York Round Table has been working with the theatre to raise money every year by donating all proceeds from the pantomime’s last full dress rehearsals to local charities.

The boost comes as a further bonus for York Against Cancer, which has met its targets by raising £100,000 in time for its 25th Silver Jubilee this year.

Mr Frost thanked the theatre and Berwick Kaler, whose pantomime Robin Hood And His Merry Mam! runs until Saturday, February 2.

“We are extremely grateful for their generous support in allowing this very special charity night to take place.

“People have been coming along every night for 20 years, which is a real testament to the fantastic show.”