AFTER more than two years pulling out all the stops to raise money for a guide dog, it was high time that fund-raiser Hilda Hattersley had her day.

Hilda, of Sergeants Lane, Whitefield, raised £2,800 by collecting stamps and donations, taking part in sponsored walks, and selling cakes, bread and pies.

The 64-year-old former school dinner lady raised the cash on behalf of Our Lady of Lourdes Over-60s Club in Prestwich of which she is a member.

She collected stamps from members of the Fairfax Road club and sold her home-baked confectionery at its weekly Wednesday meetings.

Along with a raffle including prizes from local businesses and individual donations, more than £1,200 of the cash came from Hilda's sponsored ascent of Mount Snowdon.

The total will pay for the training of a puppy, which the club is naming Grace.

At the cheque presentation to Bury Guide Dogs, Grace was represented by her canine colleague Quin.

Hilda said: "It has all been hard work and has taken a long time, but I think it's been worth it.

"I never thought I would actually stick at it but now that I have it is a real achievement."

Hilda now intends to raise money for Francis House children's hospice in Manchester on behalf of St Michael's Over-60s club, Ribble Drive, which she helps to run.