FRIENDS and family of an inspirational York woman who lost her battle with cancer only weeks after her fairytale wedding are organising a fundraising event in her memory.

Charelle Neale died in October, aged only 33. She and her husband Matt, of Acomb, tied the knot on September 11, knowing they would only enjoy a few weeks of married life together.

Now her close friend Gemma Sissons has planned an event called Angel’s Auction to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

Gemma said: “She was so amazing, a real inspiration. We have called it Angel’s Auction because in a lot of people’s eyes Charelle is now their angel.

“There’ll be something for everyone, families, adults. It’s to raise funds and awareness and also keep Charelle’s memory alive.”

She said that Matt and Charelle’s two children Cameron, 12 and Georgia, eight, were coping.

She said: “Charelle still has a Facebook page up and people still post on it and talk to her and it’s very touching what they say. I think the children are bearing up well and taking about it, everyone is keeping their spirits up and keeping her name alive which is helping them.”

Gemma said all are welcome to the auction, which is at 7pm at the Bay Horse pub in Marygate on January 21. Lots will include a chef cooking for up to eight people, a painter and decorator for a day and some handmade jewellery, as well as a raffle.

For more information visit donatetobreastcancer.org/ angelsauction