STAFF at a housing association will be rattling their pots and pans to rustle up delicious festive treats to raise money for charity.

Workers at Colne, based in Colchester, are roping in their families for the Christmas Bake Off on Thursday which will help boost the coffers of Macmillan Cancer Support. Judges will then choose the winners from the stack of sweet treats and savory snacks.

The good cause was chosen as Colne's charity of the year by former board member Mike Andrews, who lives in Fordham Heath, after his wife Vivienne sadly lost her battle with the disease two years ago.

Mr Andrews said: “We received such excellent support from Macmillan during that difficult time and so I’m extremely grateful to all those at Colne, along with their family and friends, who have been busy baking to raise money for this exceptionally worthwhile cause.”

Colne support officer Debi McAndrew received help from Macmillan when she underwent treatment for breast cancer.

She said: "We’ll be selling our festive fancies to our colleagues and people working in our office block to raise as much money as we can.

“When I was diagnosed, it was a difficult time for me, my family, friends and colleagues and I can honestly say Macmillan played a huge part in making my journey manageable.

“Macmillan helped me with telephone advice on benefits while I was off work and with a course of face-to-face counselling once my active treatment was over.”

Essex fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support Claire Husband said: "We’re so grateful to everyone who is supporting this event, whether through baking or buying the wonderful treats on offer.

“Every day, 22 people in Essex hear the devastating news that they have cancer. The generosity and commitment from our supporters enables us to be there for as many of these people as possible.

“We’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and thank you all for supporting us throughout the year.”