A LADIES charity night organised by Barry ovarian cancer campaigner Lesley Woolcock before her death has so far raised £1600.

The event, staged by Queen B boutique owner Jodie Tanner, a lifelong friend of Mrs Woolcock, saw 60 guests raise funds for the Aphrodite Appeal which specialises in women's gynaecological research.

The 47-year-old former Vale of Glamorgan Council play development worker died a day earlier this month, a after her second grandchild was born.

The fundraiser, last week, aimed to raise further awareness about ovarian cancer.

Mrs Woolcock successfully fought to be given live-prolonging drug avastin after being diagnosed with the disease in 2014.

Ms Tanner, paying tribute, said: “I’ve known Lesley since we were four years old at Jenner Park infants school. We were born 11 days apart and it was always a joke between us that we were both similar. She was kind, generous, funny and stubborn and she loved life. She was a strong spirit. She’s given me strength.”

Mrs Woolcock's sister, Alison, added: “Lesley was the life and soul of the party. One of her doctor’s rang and said they realise what impact she had had on peoples’ lives and what she’s done to help raise the profile of ovarian cancer. We’re urging people to get tested early – the CA125 test – so they can be treated early.”

Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright, who had also been due to visit her after a twitter campaign was launched, sent his condolences following her death.

Mrs Woolcock’s funeral will be held at Adams funeral home, Barry, at 12.45pm, tomorrow (May 27).

Everyone attending is encouraged to wear bright colours.

Donations can still be made at the Queen B boutique.

Alternatively, visit www.justgiving.com/lesley-woolcock