Charity night keeps memory of Hartlepool's princess alive

Julie Bell (centre) with son Mark and niece Amy at the memorial night

The memory of a much-loved little girl was kept alive and more than Â£2,000 was raised for her charity at a memorial event.

The annual fundraising night organised by family and friends of Hartlepool princess Becky Bell was another successful event.

Becky died just over five years ago at the age of seven following a brave fight against cancer.

Once again, the memorial night helped to fund the work of the charity set up by her family Keep Smiling For Becky.

Supporters enjoyed a fun 80s theme disco plus fun and games in the event at Hartlepool Catholic Club on Saturday, February 4.

They dug deep for a host of raffles, tombolas and auctions raising a total of £2,115 on the night with more still coming in.

Becky’s mum Julie Bell said: “We are over the moon with that. A few people came dressed up in 80s clothes and all enjoyed the music and games and everything.

Becky Bell in her Disney princess dress.

“We had raffles, an auction, alcohol tombola and played loads of party games to raise money, so there was quite a lot going on.

“We do it just to keep Becky’s memory alive. A lot of people will always love and remember her and it’s a good way of keeping her always with us.”

Julie, married to Mark and also mum to Mark, 16, and Vicki, 28, thanked everybody who helped to organise the night.

In association with the national child cancer charity CLIC Sargent, Keep Smiling For Becky helps to grant wishes to terminally ill children as well as provide financial support to their families.

Having been in the same shoes, Becky’s family know just how overwhelming it can be for families and the charity helps to deal with some of the practical things in life.

Julie added: “It goes to help terminally ill children up at the RVI hospital.

“CLIC Sargent get in touch with us and tell us he or she may have a wish or would like a present like an ipad.

“Or the family may be struggling financially so we help with things like that.”

Becky’s family have pledged to keep fundraising and running the charity for as long as they can in the hope of a cure one day being found.

People can also donate through the website at keepsmilingforbecky.com.