The Medway Messenger wants to help five families in the Towns have an extra special Christmas.

We have launched our festive appeal in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, which has been our charity of the year for 2011.

We want to raise enough money to provide five cancer patients and their families with a financial grant, which could really make a world of difference at this time of year.

Macmillan Cancer Support needs to raise funds to help sufferers and their loved ones - not just from a medical perspective, but to assist families who find themselves in financial hardship as a result of a child or parent's condition.

Macmillan offers one-off grants of around £350 to adults, young people and children with cancer. These can cover a wide range of practical needs, including heating bills, a much-needed break or even pay for Christmas presents.

Liz O'Hanlon, fundraising manager for Macmillan Kent, said: "Every week, people in Medway and the surrounding area benefit from this service and receive a grant from Macmillan Cancer Support.

"This time of year it is more important than ever to allow families to focus time and money on family and Christmas and not just cancer.

"Can you help us raise funds for five families in Medway to make this Christmas be about life and not cancer?"

To donate whatever you can afford, send a cheque made payable to Macmillan Cancer Support, to Medway Messenger, Medway House, Ginsbury Close, Sir Thomas Longley Road, Medway City Estate, Strood, ME4 4DU.

If you would consider hosting a fundraising event in aid of our festive appeal or can help in any other way, phone reporter Jenni Horn on 01634 227828 or email jhorn@thekmgroup.co.uk.