A CHARITY that provides relief to cancer patients has praised the efforts of local people.

In 2005, thanks to the generosity of individuals, companies and organisations in West Yorkshire, Macmillan Cancer Relief was able to give cash help totalling £276,729.

Huddersfield area people raised just over £15,400 to help 44 local sufferers who rely on such generosity.

The money will go towards helping people diagnosed with cancer who find dealing with its related money problems almost as difficult as coping with the illness itself.

The charity's patient welfare manager, Rolf Millican, said: "Patients have told us that money worries are a huge problem.

"Often they lose their income and then have to face the extra costs of having cancer, such as travel to hospital and prescription charges.

"But Macmillan provides immediate practical help for those on low or reduced incomes at what is already a very stressful time."

In 2005, Macmillan gave 20,442 people grants totalling almost £7.7m.

Local fundraising manager Nikki Hawkins said: "I am sure everyone in West Yorkshire who has supported Macmillan in 2005 will be pleased to know their generosity means that local people affected by cancer and their families have had real, practical help to lessen their money worries."