THE founding members of charity, the Tom Bowdidge Foundation, are taking part in this month’s Secret Vintage Fair.

The foundation has been chosen as the charity for this month’s fair, with a selection of door proceeds and a raffle and donations being handed over.

Founded in West Bergholt in February 2014, the foundation was launched by Richard and Nikki Bowdidge, who’s teenage son Tom died from a rare stomach cancer aged just 19.

Janine Rudkins, organiser of the fair, said: “The Bowdidge family and volunteers will be fully involved on the day.

“Richard will be hosting the raffle, Tom’s sister Emma is taking part in the fashion show and mum Nikki will be overseeing a special stall highlighting the charity’s mission.

“And let’s not forget the foundation’s mischievous mascot Barney who has hit the town already.” Tom Bowdidge raised £170,000 for charity before he died. His family have continued his legacy by carrying on his fundraising work and raising awareness of cancers in teenagers and young people.

Mum Nikki said: “The Secret Vintage Fair gives us a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of the Tom Bowdidge Foundation to an exciting new audience.

“The foundation is proud to have been selected by the fair as its charity partner and we are looking forward to an exciting day.

“One of the aims of the foundation is to raise awareness of cancer in teenagers and young people.

“With some ten young people diagnosed with cancer a day in the UK, it is important people are made aware of how cancer can affect a young person and the impact it can have on their family.

“By working with the vintage fair, the work of the foundation will become known to many new friends and supporters, many of whom are either young themselves or have children or grandchildren who could be affected by this cruel disease.”

The Secret Vintage Fair will take place on April 25 at Colchester Town Hall.

The entrance fee is £3, accompanied under 15s go free. The doors will open at 10.30am with more than 40 traders taking part.