A MYNYTHO woman is appealing to the community to get involved in a balloon race challenge to raise funds for six special charities.

Linda Jones has organised to release 1,000 biodegradable balloons during the annual Hwyl yr Wyl Christmas event in Pwllheli at the end of this month to raise money for leukaemia, diabetes, breast cancer, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s and dystonia charities.

Linda, 58, who suffers with Parkinson’s disease herself, says she hopes many members of the community will get involved and buy a balloon to help raise as much money as possible for the charities.

She said: “The charities we are going to be raising funds for are close to my heart and it’s important that we raise awareness of the ones that many people don’t know about, like dystonia.

“Dystonia is more common than people think and it’s a charity that needs funding to help develop its research.

“I’m a Parkinson’s sufferer so I was keen to raise money for this charity and the leukaemia and diabetes charity were chosen by the Pen Llyn Half Marathon Society as their chosen charities this year so that is why they are part of this fundraiser.

“Motor Neurone disease is becoming more and more common now, a lot more people know what it is which is a good thing but so much more research needs to be done into the disease.

“Breast cancer of course is another charity we were keen to help and raise funds for as many people are sadly diagnosed with this disease these days.”

Two time breast cancer survivor, Ali Chambers, of Pwllheli is also helping Linda with the fundraiser.

She said: “I was happy to get involved in Linda’s balloon fundraiser, I always very keen to raise funds for breast cancer, having suffered with the disease myself I know how much it can affect those suffering with the terrible disease and those around them.”

The balloon race will take place on November 29 and will be released from Y Maes car park during the afternoon.

Linda added: “The tickets are £2 each and can be bought from my shop, Seren Wib in Pwllheli.

“Whoever has the balloon that travels the furthest will win a prize.”