Saskia Harper
An Aberdeen Avon representative has single-handedly raised over £100,000 for the UK’s leading breast cancer charity.
Kate Beaton, who is from Bridge of Don, started raising money for Breast Cancer Now seven years ago, after her sister was diagnosed with the disease.
In the intervening period, she has held myriad events, including bake sales, raffles, race nights and local walks to support the charity.
Ms Beaton said: “When I started fundraising for Breast Cancer Now more than seven years ago, I never set out to raise this amount of money.
“I simply wanted to help fund research that would help women with breast cancer like my sister.
“Over the years, I have been blown away by the support of my wonderful friends and family who have helped me to reach this amazing target.
“And I would also like to thank Avon who have supported me from the very beginning.
“It is wonderful to be acknowledged for my fundraising efforts, but the real reward is knowing that I am contributing to life-saving breast cancer research.”
Throughout the course of her fundraising, beauty company Avon has supported Ms Beaton, by donating raffle prizes and matching some of the funds she has accumulated.
Andrea Slater, general manager of Avon Western Europe said: “We have been dedicated to raising funds and awareness of the breast cancer cause for 25 years and we are incredibly proud of Kate and her achievement.
“Kate has made such a difference to the lives of women everywhere. What a great example of how one person can make a huge impact.
“This terrible disease continues to destroy families, friends and our loved ones, so we must continue to unite in the fight to defeat breast cancer for good.”
Breast Cancer Now is the UK’s largest breast cancer research charity.
Bernie Nolan, head of corporate partnerships for the organisation, added: “We cannot thank Kate enough for the outstanding contribution that she has made to the charity.
“This is the largest amount of money raised by any individual in Scotland for Breast Cancer Now. It is an incredible achievement and we are so grateful for Kate’s support.
“All of the money raised has been invested in world-class research to help prevent, treat and ultimately stop breast cancer. Without the support of amazing supporters such as Kate, our life-saving work simply wouldn’t be possible.
“On behalf of everyone at Breast Cancer Now I would like to congratulate Kate and say a huge thank you for her many, many years of hard work, dedication and commitment to the charity.”
For more information, or to donate to Breast Cancer Now, visit http://breastcancernow.org/get-involved/donate