News Beat
Scarborough woman’s ‘bold decision’ championing cancer charity
Tina Boden, 57, from Flixton near Scarborough, has supported Yorkshire Cancer Research for more than a decade and has raised more than £82,000 through fundraising events and awareness campaigns.
A businesswoman for nearly 40 years, Ms Boden helps Yorkshire businesses grow and supports women in midlife through her coaching programme.
She said: “Lending a voice and raising awareness about the importance of cancer research can be just as important as raising money.
“In today’s economic climate, people want to understand the impact of a charity before they donate or fundraise.
“Building awareness and having conversations about how cancer research in Yorkshire saves lives is vital for raising funds.”
She first became involved with Yorkshire Cancer Research in 2013 while serving as a trustee for the Ellie’s Fund – Brain Tumour Trust.
The two organisations partnered with the University of Leeds and other Yorkshire groups to support research into brain tumours.
She said: “What drew me in about Yorkshire Cancer Research was how it put the needs of people in our county first.
“Yorkshire is so diverse – from cities to dales and coastline – and that’s why it needs its own cancer charity.
“The charity’s work reflects the breadth of communities here and funds research that addresses different cancer issues in different areas.”
Over the years, Ms Boden has supported a range of fundraising activities, including a seven-seater bike ride in 2013 and a cookbook project with Selby College catering students that raised £15,000.
In a more recent effort, she walked 256 miles across Yorkshire, raising £900.
She said: “When I turned 50, I wanted to embrace some new challenges and loved getting out into communities for fundraising events.
“Last year, at 56, I made the bold decision to enter the United Kingdom Galaxy pageant and became Mrs North Yorkshire Galaxy 2024/25.
“I was placed in the Top 10 of the Mrs Galaxy UK finalists, it was a proud moment and a chance to spread the word about the work of local charities, including research Yorkshire Cancer Research funds.
“It’s reminded me how important it is to step out of our comfort zone and seize the day, because we never known when health issues might arise.”
Ms Boden’s commitment to cancer research grew even stronger after the loss of her close friend Mandy in December 2021.
Mandy, from Huddersfield, died aged 53 following her third cancer diagnosis in 10 years.
She was widely known across West Yorkshire for her #BeMoreMandy campaign, which raised funds for Yorkshire charities through fashion shows and other events.
Ms Boden said: “Mandy inspires me to this day.
“She taught me to step out on stage, embrace challenges and never accept limitations.
“She was passionate about making a difference to other people, even during her end-of-life care.
“Shortly before she passed away, I helped her bring a group of people together to make sure we would continue her work.”
Ms Boden also draws strength from positive stories like that of her friend Claire, who took part in the Active Together cancer exercise programme after breast cancer treatment in 2024.
Claire is one of more than 2,000 people in Yorkshire who have benefited from the service, which is funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research.
Ms Boden said: “Seeing the difference Active Together made to Claire reinforced my commitment to the charity’s work.
“It enabled her to rebuild her strength and confidence after treatment, making a huge difference to her quality of life.
“Knowing Yorkshire Cancer Research is doing this work motivates me to help however I can.”
Reflecting on the impact of Yorkshire Cancer Research as the charity marks its centenary, Ms Boden is encouraging others to get involved in 2026 by supporting fundraising, volunteering or simply raising awareness.
She said: “As we step into a new year, I’d encourage everyone to learn about the incredible research happening here in Yorkshire and play a part in its progress.
“Every action counts towards the charity’s mission to save lives in our region.”
