Pub’s plea to raise £125,000 for dancer

Charlotte Booth, 18, from Kippax is studying performing arts and was one of her college’s future stars when she was diagnosed with a synovial sarcoma this summer.

She has been through three cycles of chemotherapy to try to shrink the tumour so it could be removed, but unfortunately, things have not gone as planned.

Surgery was unsuccessful, as the tumour could not be taken out as it was attached to a main artery.

Charlotte and her family are now trying to raise £125,000 so she can have proton therapy in the USA, which experts say has a much better chance of improving her life.

And a special fundraising evening has been organised by The Podger pub, Garforth, to help the Charlotte Booth Appeal.

Landlady Jacki Quarmby said: “Everyone in the area has been touched by Charlotte’s story and the whole community has come together to support her and the family.

“Cancer at any age is terrifying but Charlotte has been so brave and is sure she can beat this disease. Her ambition is to become a professional dancer and everyone at the Podger is hoping she will be able to realise that dream.”

The fundraising event takes place on Tuesday, November 22, with former Leeds footballers Peter Lorimer and Eddie Gray as guest speakers.

Glasgow-born Eddie was an integral member of Leeds United in the 1960s and 70s, joining the club at just 16 years old, and later became the club manager. He now works as a football commentator.

Fellow Scotsman Peter Lorimer was also part of the much-admired Leeds United team having joined at just 15.

He is now a director at the football club.

The evening starts at 8pm and tickets are £10 each, which includes a buffet, available from The Podger.