Red Petticoats step out in summer to raise money for cancer and wellbeing centre

Clog dancers from Ilfracombe have raised hundreds of pounds to provide wellbeing support for North Devon cancer patients.

The Ilfracombe Red Petticoats have been performing for locals and holidaymakers at various locations on Thursday nights and weekends throughout the summer.

The group has been holding collections for the Fern Centre at each event and members visited the cancer wellbeing centre at North Devon District Hospital to present a cheque for £470.

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Member Janet Ellis, who is also a volunteer at the Fern Centre, said: “We have had a good summer with some fine evenings of dancing to eager crowds. We usually do a dance where they can join in and have some fun! 

“This year, we also organised a day out when we hired a mini-bus and went to Lynton, Lynmouth and Malmsmead collecting at each spot. We also danced for the Fern Centre’s 5th anniversary celebrations in July.”

This is the third year that the Petticoats have collected money for the Fern Centre, which opened in 2020 following a £1.5m fundraising appeal by Royal Devon Hospitals Charity (then known as Over & Above).

The centre offers a whole range of free counselling, complementary therapies, information and wellbeing support to anyone in North Devon affected by cancer.

“We as a team, feel that raising funds for the Fern Centre is a particularly worthwhile cause,” added Janet.

“We all know someone who has had cancer and knowing that here in North Devon is a special place that they can go to for all kinds of support, is a huge comfort.”

Holly Conway, Fern Centre personalised care support manager, said: “We can’t thank the Ilfracombe Red Petticoats enough for their super support of the Fern Centre.

“Not only do their weekly performances bring smiles to many people’s faces, they are also helping the centre to provide a whole range of vital wellbeing support at a time when people need it most.”

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The group practises on Thursday evenings from October 9 to May at Braunton Parish Hall from 7.30-9pm.

“We are a friendly group and have a lot of fun performing together. Everyone is welcome to come along on the evening and try out Morris dancing,” said Janet.

“We can also offer demonstrations or workshops to ladies' groups. You can message us on ilfracomberedpetticoats@gmail.com.”