Stephen Hilland and Paula McCabe from M&S Lisburn with Dougie King of Action Cancer

A massive £110,000 has been raised by Marks & Spencer employees for Action Cancer in just two months through a series of challenges which included a parachute jump and a 20-mile cycle ride.

The 18 M&S stores across Northern Ireland set out to reach £100K in the summer for the charity’s counselling and therapeutic services.

It has just been revealed that the 2,500 employees, family, friends and customers exceeded their target by taking part in many novel fundraising events which also included a 6 mile sponsored walk and in-store sponsored cyclothons.

£16,753 and £1,414 was raised at M&S in Sprucefield and M&S in Bow Street Mall respectively.

Stephen Hilland from M&S Lisburn said, “£100,000 was an ambitious target but we were very hopeful all the employees would get behind the challenge. To break it, and more, is such an achievement and everyone is so proud.

“We wanted to think outside the box and come up with some different fundraising initiatives from the norm. We were delighted when we had suggestions such as parachute jumps and gruelling cycle challenges. So many of M&S employees have been affected by cancer in some way, so they made such an effort for this campaign. Thanks to all involved – it will make such a difference!”