Revellers get in the pink for Kate

Emma Meeres, 25, of Cantelupe Road, Bexhill, and her friend Laura Richards, organised the event at Centre Stage, London Road, after their friend Kate Ryan, also 25, was diagnosed with the disease late last year.

The event had a pink theme and everyone dressed in pink fancy dress.

A raffle and auction of promises, some of which were donated by Graham Norton, was also held.

Emma said: "The auction alone raised 1,900, we had around 130 guests, there was live music, a disco, a tower of cupcakes, all made and donated by the local community, a pink cocktail fountain, loads of pink raffle items, fantastic food and a real air of community spirit.

"The heartfelt generosity of all who were involved in putting the event together and all who attended on the evening was magnificent and my thanks go out to each and every one.

"I have known Kate since I was 13 as we both went to Bexhill High School.

"She is a truly incredible young woman and every woman I know should aspire to be as brave and strong as Kate is. I feel lucky to have her in my life."

Kate, pictured above, moved to the USA and was diagnosed with breast cancer some months later.

She decided to have a double mastectomy to remove both breasts.

Her friend said: "As if this wasn't difficult enough, she is now undergoing some of the strongest forms of chemotherapy.

"She has a Green Card which means she is now a US citizen but cannot come back to the UK for NHS treatment.

"The USA does not provide any form of free treatment to cancer patients regardless of age or severity."

Emma said the treatment since January alone has cost at least $18,000 (around 11,700).

James Hayes, senior manager of Centre Stage, said: "The evening was a magnificent success with so many giving so much of their time to such a worthy cause.

"When her close friend Emma contacted her at the end of the evening with the news of fund-raising party, Kate was overcome by emotion and her heartfelt thanks went out to all who had contributed."