Generous Bradford people have dug deep into their time and pockets to make a Christmas challenge for cancer research a success.

The bid to raise £25,000 for the Telegraph & Argus Bradford Can... Cancer Research Appeal during December is shooting towards its target.

Three weeks into the mini-appeal, the total stands at £17,653.

That cash has been raised by people all over the district with a range of ingenious fundraising ideas.

One of the latest donations has come from a newsagent who is giving all his commission from sales of National Lottery tickets to the appeal for two months.

Usman Darr, of Darr's in Toller Lane, said he wanted to help after his family was affected by cancer.

"We have recently had five bereavements and two have been cancer patients," he said.

The Brad-ford Can... Appeal has just hit £850,000 in its quest to raise £1 million for cancer research in Bradford.

That means there's only another £150,000 to go. The money will help to develop new drugs at the world famous Cancer Research Unit at Bradford University.

Appeal manager Tish Burton said the latest tally was fantastic news.

"We have been overwhelmed with the number of small cheques and cards arriving with donations inside," she said. "Every one is an important contribution to the final total and I am confident we can do it.

"Fundraising needs to continue to make sure we hit the £1 million by early next year so we are urging everyone to rally round for the final push."

If you can help, contact the Bradford Can... Appeal office on (01274) 235482.

The appeal was boosted by £587 raised in a Christmas raffle.

The event was held at the Telegraph & Argus Christmas party at the Hilton, Bradford.

Fabulous prizes given by local firms, including Morrisons, were up for grabs.