The Ardenlea Marie Curie Centre in Ilkley could benefit from any dreadful Christmas presents which have been hidden away in a drawer.

Brenda Doyle, Ardenlea fundraiser, said unwanted presents, whether they be stinky 'smellies' (perfume, aftershave or bath products) or terrible ties could prove valuable fundraising items for the Ilkley centre.

Mrs Doyle said: "We have a busy fundraising programme ahead and those unwanted presents will be very welcome, particularly as prizes in the annual Daffodil Ball."

Mrs Doyle urged people to support the event which could be the last Ardenlea ball. "Obviously, when the new centre in Bradford opens there will continue to be a Marie Curie ball but no longer the Ardenlea ball," she said.

Ardenlea will be closed, possibly later this year, to be replaced by a multi-million pound Marie Curie Centre in Bradford. However, certain support services will remain in Ilkley, including Mrs Doyle and the fundraising team.

The first (and last) Ardenlea Daffodil Ball of the new Millennium will be held at The Craiglands Hotel on March 4. Anyone who wants information should ring the fundraiser's office on (01943) 817395.

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