A grandmother diagnosed with an aggressive form of ovarian cancer held a tea party to raise awareness about her condition.

Anita Hudson, of Bradbury Close, Borehamwood, invited people from the community to learn more about the disease and its symptoms.

She raised £640 during the event, which was held at Borehamwood Youth Football Club in Aycliffe Road.

The 48-year-old said: “We had a fantastic turn out, with so many generous donations of raffles and prizes.

“I would like to say thank you to those who helped me put it together – it was a great day.

"Because 140,000 women a year die from ovarian cancer, and there is no screening test available, I thought it important to do my bit in raising awareness."

Mrs Hudson was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer in November after four years of suffering unusual symptoms.

Doctors initially said she had irritable bowel syndrome, but the illness finally came to light after Mrs Hudson was rushed to hospital with suspected appendicitis.

Despite there being no hope of recovery, she is determined to make more people aware about the disease.

She said: “It was a massive shock but now I’m trying to channel all my efforts into making other people aware.

“Several people have already been to get tested as a result of my awareness day which is fantastic.

“If I can save one person then it’s been worth it.”