A cancer charity is stressing the importance of legacies in helping it to continue its vital work.

Macmillan Cancer Support hosted a reception at Harewood House in Leeds as part of a UK wide programme of events to highlight the importance of legacy giving. The event, last week, came after research found 29 per cent of people in Yorkshire find wills and death amongst the most difficult topics to discuss, above politics, religion and money.  The reception encouraged local people to consider the importance of having an up-to-date professionally-written will.  Victoria Sumner, regional legacy manager, said: “Here in West Yorkshire, amongst other things, Macmillan Cancer Support is investing £237,000 to fund six Macmillan GP leads, thanks to the generous donations we receive from supporters – a third of which comes from gifts pledged to the charity in individuals’ wills.

“This event is an opportunity to thank these friends, whilst highlighting to other guests the importance of having an up-to- date will and encouraging them to explore the positive benefits of leaving a legacy. Legacies are so important to Macmillan and make up more than a third of our funding. Large or small every gift makes a difference, we couldn’t do what we do without them.”

For further information visit macmillan.org.uk/legacies or call 0800 107 4448.