A GROUP behind a kind-hearted effort to raise funds for East Lancashire Hospice are worried their charity event will have to be cancelled after a lack of public interest.

Brother and sister Wayne and Donna Grunshaw have been fundraising for the hospice for several years to thank staff for their hard work, and the support they give to patients, and their families.

Their 49-year-old sister, Susan, died at the hospice in 2009.

The pair had hoped to improve on the success of their event two years ago, which raised £3,100 for the charity.

But this year they believe that a tougher economic situation has made people more reluctant to buy tickets for the night-time buffet, raffle, and disco event, despite offering two tickets for £7.

They said they may have to cancel the 250-capacity event, due to take place on July 27, and refund those who have bought tickets.

Wayne, 47, who has been organising the event since last November, said that despite the support of local businesses, who between them have donated signed Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers shirts, meal vouchers and a £100 cheque, ticket sales have remained slow.

He said: “We understand it’s not easy for people at the moment, but we’ve done all we can to make it affordable, and I just don’t know what else we can do.

“The hospice touches the lives of so many in the area, so it would be lovely if we were able to give them a nice cheque so that the service can continue its invaluable work.

“The event was great fun last time and we’re sure that the entertainment will only be better this year.

“We just need people to book tickets now, so that we know it will be worth going ahead with it.”

Tickets for the event, at Longshaw Sports and Social Club, are buy-one-get-one free at £7 each, and can be booked by contacting Wayne via their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/149721525126887/?fref=ts or on 07712410633.