By Tara Fitzpatrick

DUMBARTON MSP Jackie Baillie is helping the World's Biggest Coffee Morning to pass its £200m fundraising total.

Macmillan Cancer Support's leading fundraising event is taking place this month encouraging people to get together for a tea or coffee and some cake to raise money for the charity.

Last year's event raised a total of £29.5m from across the UK and organisers are aiming to make this year the biggest yet in order to top £200m since the coffee mornings began in 1991.

Ms Baillie said: "I know a considerable number of constituents have personal experiences of the problems a cancer diagnosis can bring to both patients and their families, and Macmillan has been there to support many of those in need.

"We are lucky in Dumbarton, Vale of Leven and Helensburgh to have such a dedicated team of staff and volunteers providing Macmillan’s cancer support services at local libraries and the Vale of Leven Hospital.

"The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is a great opportunity for local people to support this vital work. It's an easy and fun way to raise money for Macmillan, and every penny you raise will help people with cancer."

This year's official event will take place on September 29 but coffee mornings can be held at any time throughout the month.

Everyone is encouraged to take part with friends, family or colleagues and you can register now for your free fundraising pack via the website -www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee