When Ann Clark was diagnosed with cancer more than two years ago, she said her “world ended”.

But following bouts of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and neck surgery, the mother-of-three is now in remission, and determined to help others battling the disease.

Following in the footsteps of friend Carmela Cook, who was diagnosed and beat a rare form of ovarian cancer, Mrs Clark is launching her own personal campaign to raise cash for Cancer Research UK and the Paul Strickland Scanner Appeal at Mount Vernon Hospital.

This weekend she will host a barbecue at her home, where a psychic will be on hand to provide readings to raise cash for charity.

To collect even further money, she is hosting a ball at Hunton Park Hotel, Hunton Bridge, in September.

Mrs Clark, of Holme Way, said: “I found a lump on my neck and knew that there was something wrong.

“I went to see doctors and was diagnosed with cancer at the back of my tongue.

“A scanner picked up that I had the lump and essentially saved my life.

“It was a terrible time, my family took it really badly and I just felt shock.

“You don’t think cancer will ever happen to you, but of course, it can.”

The 57-year-old spent seven weeks undergoing treatment at Mount Vernon Hospital in Northwood, a time she described as incredibly invasive and frightening, causing her to lose two stone in weight.

But she said that it was thanks to the support of her family, and the hard work and dedication of doctors and nurses that she is now in remission.

Her daughter, Melanie Day, 34, added: “Even though I work for a cancer charity, you never really think that it will happen to someone you love.

“I am so proud with how she dealt with the treatment and the trips to hospital, not to mention the still ongoing effects that cancer has left her with.

“We have always been a close family, but cancer has brought us closer together, I appreciate every minute that I spend with my mum.”

Following her recovery, Mrs Clark has thrown herself into organising the Fight 4 Life Charity Ball.

Hoping to collect as much money as possible for charity, she said she has been overwhelmed by the level of support she has received from readers and well-wishers.

She said: “When it comes to tickets for the ball, we’ve pretty much sold out.

“It’s a wonderful feeling, knowing that we’re going to be raising lots of money for two hugely important causes.

"I wouldn't be here, if it wasn't for Cancer Research and Mount Vernon Hospital, they saved my life.

“I can’t thank people enough for their support, from prizes for the raffle, to those that have bought tickets.

"For anyone that has missed out, they can still help by donating to the cause.

"What you spare could make all the difference.”

To donate money or to support the event, call Ann Clark on 01923 720 441 or 07930261 524