A tattoo studio in Southampton has raised more than £3,000 for two cancer charities after organising a special event on World Cancer Day.

Mavericks Tattoo Studio, in Totton, organised a fundraiser on World Cancer Day earlier this month after one of their staff members recovered from thyroid cancer following an eight-year battle with the illness.

All proceeds the company made from tattoos on the day – £1,305 – went to MacMillan Cancer Support, whilst money raised through a raffle and cake sales – £2,128 – that saw a host of local businesses donate prizes, including Lidl and Pretty Fit Training Studio, was donated to Teenage Cancer Trust.

Speaking to the Echo, co-manager of Mavericks Tattoo Studio, Martin Moore, said he ‘couldn’t be more thankful to all those who were involved.’

The 31-year-old said: “We hadn’t done a fundraiser for a little while so when we floated the idea to the staff, one of our artists – Kate – who had thyroid cancer from the age of 20, until last year when she turned 28, really wanted us to donate any money that we make to the Teenage Cancer Trust, as they supported her when she needed it most.

“The fundraiser itself was a fun day but everyone understood the greater meaning of it.

“All eight staff members volunteered to get involved when they didn’t have to, and it really meant a lot.”

READ MORE: Peppa’s Cinema Party features Southampton schoolgirl

Daily Echo:

During the fundraiser, staff tattooed cancer ribbons and positive messages such as ‘be strong’ and ‘I survived’ to those who wanted them, as well as raffling an array of vouchers.

With over £2,000 being donated to Teenage Cancer Trust, the charity’s south coast relationship manager, Lynn Hyder, said: “We are so grateful to Mavericks Tattoo Studio for choosing to support Teenage Cancer Trust through their charity tattoo day.

“The funds raised will help us support the seven young people, who today and every day, will hear the words ‘you have cancer'.

“There’s never been a worse time to receive that news, with healthcare services close to breaking point, waiting times increasing, and diagnosis taking longer.”

She added: “Their support means we can provide tailored support that lets young people hold on to their identity, independence, and dreams – so cancer doesn’t rob them of the best years of their life.

“Huge thanks to the team at Mavericks Tattoo for organising this brilliant initiative and for such an incredible donation.”

Mavericks Tattoo Studio would also like to pay tribute to Josh – who was a close friend to staff at the studio – who lost his battle with cancer last week at the age of 18.