by Chris Hunter

chunter@thekmgroup.co.uk

An appeal to help organise a wedding for a terminally-ill young mum has sparked an “overwhelming response.”

Friends of 27-year-old mum of one Natasha Harwood took on the task of arranging her wedding to fiancé Ricky Elmes this summer, after she was diagnosed with bowel cancer, so she can celebrate her dream day with family and friends before its too late.

And they said they were amazed as hundreds came forward with offers of money and help after the story of their plan ran last week.

“It’s been non-stop since Friday,” said Michelle Stone, 30, of Foxglove Rise, Maidstone, who is co-ordinating efforts together with 28-year-old Natalie Clark.

“I had a good 20 emails that day - we’ve had florists, photographers, cake makers. A couple of venues came up too. Lots of people offered table decorations.”

"i’ve been up at midnight replying to emails but it’s worth it - i can’t lose sight of what we’re doing it for" – natasha's pal michelle stone

She said they’d even had offers of a horse and carriage, a toastmaster and wedding rings.

“The list is endless,” she added. “It’s been incredible.

“People are so generous. One guy said he didn’t normally donate but wanted the details so he could donate when he got paid.

“I’ve been up at midnight replying to emails but it’s worth it - I can’t lose sight of what we’re doing it for.”

The main priority is to fix a date and venue - and the friends are due to meet with Oakwood House to discuss arrangements this week, after the hotel in Oakwood Park came forward to help.

Natasha, Ricky, Michelle and Natalie all met at Betsy Clara Nursing Home in Courtenay Road, Tovil, where Natasha had worked as a chef until her illness forced her to stand down earlier this year.

Michelle now works for her family’s joinery firm JP Stone Ltd, while Natalie is still a carer at Betsy Clara.

“I saw Natasha on Tuesday,” added Michelle. “They’re all overwhelmed by it all. I didn’t ever imagine it would be such a response. I thought it would be just a little bit in the paper and when it went on the front page we were buzzing.”

Anyone wanting to get involved can now visit a website which will contain regular updates on the wedding plans and information about Natasha - who began chemotherapy treatment on Wednesday.

There will also be a fundraising walk at Bewl Water near Lamberhurst on Sunday, May 26.

Contact Michelle by emailing donations@rickandtash.co.uk or call 01622 752 784.