March 2, 2001 10:06: A CANCER charity received more than £3,000 towards a holiday home so children with cancer and their families can take a break from hospital treatments.

English Welsh and Scottish Railway Ltd, in London, presented the cheque to The Thomas Ball Children's Cancer Fund, in Prestwood, on February 22. Thomas Ball needs £20,000 for the holiday home and has so far raised £12,000.

Elaine Ball set up the charity two years ago after her son Thomas had been treated for a very rare aggressive cancer, which is now in remission.

She said: "The treatment is so harsh. Unless you have been through it you won't realise it.

"Families also need a break too."

The charity has also been supported by Threshers the Wine Merchants, Wycombe Road, Prestwood, and The Chequers Pub, High Street, Prestwood.

To make a donation call (01494) 890157.