Michelle’s partner Andy Georgiou cuts the ribbon to start the fundraising event

FRIENDS, neighbours and relatives of a popular greengrocer gathered at Highbury Barn on Saturday to raise money for a breast cancer charity.

Hundreds joined the Paint Highbury Pink fundraiser, founded by “the beating heart of Highbury Barn”, Michelle Lovell, who died from the disease earlier this year.

George Papanastasiou with Julie Horten and Gianna Cinalli

The mother-of-two launched the event 10 years ago following her first bout of breast cancer, selling cakes outside her shop, Mrs Lovell’s Greengrocer.

She wanted to raise awareness of the disease and raise money for improved research.

Each year, the event grew bigger, with her 2014 fundraiser bringing in £10,000. With her cancer returning at around that time, Ms Lovell could no longer fundraise but friends and family, who have carried on her work, this year raised £10,500 by selling cakes, jewellery and raffle tickets.

Michelle and Andy

Estate agent George Papanastasiou, 23, of Hotblack Desiato, transformed his office in Highbury Barn into a pop-up shop for the day.

“The Barn was buzzing and the event was definitely a success which brought the community together,” he said. “I did a collection through the office and raised £350.”

To donate go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/painthighburypink