Tea party helps mum battle breast cancer

Dominique Hills, 40, from Lancing, known as Domi, is mum to Callum, one, and Toby, three, and is about to undergo her fourth of six chemotherapy treatmemts following surgery.

Her husband Darren is a serving officer in the Army, based in Abingdon, which means family and friends are not local to offer the practical support required whilst Domi receives treatment.

Guests at the fundraising tea party, Charity Begins at Home, were entertained by two live music sets and there was dancing from a local jive group.

A raffle with prizes including signed football memorabilia and afternoon tea for two at The Grand helped bring in more much-needed money.

Sister Melissa Robinson described the event, which raised £1,700 for the family, as ‘amazing’.

Domi was a sergeant in the Medical Corps for 12 years until she retired a year ago, having served on a number of tours including in Iraq.

In her youth, sporty Domi ran for West Sussex, played football for local ladies teams and even boxed for her regiment during her time in the forces.

The venue for the event was provided free of charge by the Lancing branch of the Royal British Legion.