AN INSPIRATIONAL theatre choreographer who set up a cancer charity is being supported by Yeadon Amateurs.

The group is donating £1 of every ticket sold for its September play, Stone Cold Murder, to the charity Jacqui’s Million. The appeal was set up by Jacqui Drake, who - despite being terminally ill - is working to raise £1million for the cancer unit at St James’ hospital in Leeds

Jacqui, from Bradford, was first treated for a melanoma on her leg in 1991. In 2009 a lump appeared in the same place and after numerous tests she was told it was a secondary cancer. The melanoma spread to her lungs and in 2015 she underwent an operation to remove the tumour and her right lung.

On her Facebook page she says: "Since then I have continued with chemotherapy and other drugs for the side effects and although the above sounds devastating I am really positive and living every day to the full. Life expectancy for an 'average' person with my condition is usually one year – but as the specialists say 'I am not average' - and here I am six years on. I say 'Everyone is terminally ill, it's just that I'm not getting off at this terminus'. I am still working and living a fun packed life."

She added: " "My goal and legacy is to raise £1 million for the Bexley Wing, and if I can get one million people to donate just £1 then the job would be done. This money will be used in a variety of ways, but specifically for all cancer patients from children to adults... So if you can please help me with my appeal as every penny donated does count. One day we will beat cancer – we must all stay positive.”

Jacqui has worked with a number of local theatre companies including Yeadon Amateurs, and the group wanted to support her. As well as donating part of the ticket price it will also collect for her charity on show nights.

President Bryan Stott said: "We are both saddened and inspired by Jacqui’s battle; her determination to raise money and help others suffering whilst she is so sick puts a lot into perspective. We are keen to support her in her quest to raise £1million for St James Hospital Cancer Unit and we urge our public to help us do this, by either donating directly on Jacqui’s Just Giving Page, or coming along to our play.”

This year’s play, the thriller Stone Cold Murder, runs at Yeadon Town Hall from September 28 to October 1. For bookings call 0113 2505587 or 0113 2503032. Tickets cost £10 and £1 will be donated to Jacqui’s Million on request.