BEFORE Michelle Scully was diagnosed with cancer, she admitted that she regarded her workmates as colleagues, rather than friends.

But that all changed when the 39-year-old contracted the illness and staff at Marks and Spencer in St Helens rallied round to offer their help and support.

They decided to raise money by doing a sponsored walk around Carr Mill Dam and asked Michelle where she wanted the donations to go.

Michelle chose The Lilac Centre at Whiston Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment. When the final total was counted, they had raised £1,400.

Michelle, who is halfway through her chemotherapy said: "I have mad a lot of friends because of this and I wanted to make sure that everyone on the shop floor and those who helped, got some recognition."