Independent retailers around the UK took part in this year’s Macmillan coffee morning, raising hundreds of pounds for the charity.

Nimesh Patel, owner of Best-one in Preston, signed up after Macmillan helped him through his aunt and father’s cancer diagnoses.

“We’ve been bombarded with cakes and donations,” he said. “The locals have known our family for years, and they know what we’re going through. Taking part has also humanised the store – cancer is something most of us have been affected by.”

Aman and Joga Uppal, of One Stop Mount Nod in Coventry, also held a coffee morning in their store. Tchibo to Go provided free coffee for the event, which raised £361.50.

“It’s great to see suppliers supporting retailers and charities,” Joga said. “A local who works at the barbers on our parade was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully she’s been given the all clear, but we wanted to do this for her and other customers who have had similar experiences.”