A WOMAN from Okehampton who emigrated to Australia two years ago is appealing for help from her home town to support her fundraising efforts.

Jessica Burdus, 31, grew up and went to school in Okehampton before going on to do a foundation art course in Exeter and getting a first class degree in visual communications and marketing.

Jessica moved to Manley, Sydney two years ago. She is planning to take part in the Ride to Conquer Cancer, a 200 kilometre cycle from Sydney to Camdem in October to raise money for the Chris O'Brian Lifehouse at RPA, an Australian cancer centre providing both treatment for patients and cancer research. To take part she needs to raise $2,500.

Jessica's mum Gina Burdus still lives in Okehampton.

She said: 'She has not previously done a lot of cycling so this is going to be a great challenge for her. She has organised a party at work and a competition at a local pub and is arranging a dinner dance to help fund her $2,500 entry fee.'

To offer your support e-mail Gina on [email protected]">[email protected]