A GRANDMOTHER has pulled in the pounds for a good cause after being inspired by her grandson’s cancer battle.

Mandy Pinchin, of Clere Gardens, Chineham, raised £630 by taking part in the “big bucket collection” at Sainsbury’s, in The Malls, and by holding a bake sale for staff at her workplace in Next, Festival Place.

Mandy’s grandson, Samuel, was diagnosed with leukaemia in May 2012, aged just two, after his mother, Helen, noticed a rash on his leg.

Samuel was rushed from the family home in Torbay to Bristol Children’s Hospital, just four weeks after his sister, Katie, was born.

CLIC Sargent provided a house for Mandy and the family to stay with Katie while parents Andrew and Helen stayed with Samuel.

Mandy, who praised the charity, told The Gazette: “CLIC were so kind and supportive that I wanted to give something back. It is unbelievable the amount we raised – everyone has been so kind and generous.”

Samuel, who is now three, is receiving ongoing treatment at Exeter Hospital, which is expected to last until 2015, and is back at nursery two days per week.

Mandy said she would like to thank her friend and work colleague Gaye Lungley, Terry Ball and her husband Richard for all their help with the fundraising.