A GROUP of fund-raisers from Foulridge who have supported the Pendleside Hospice since its formation raised £600 for the charity during the last 12 months.

The people of Foulridge Friends of the Hospice clubbed together and organised various money-making events despite a recent fall in numbers and ill health among members.

Local artist David Hoyle donates one of his works to the group every year and butcher David Ingham sold raffle tickets for a chance to win the painting, which raised £250.

Couple Mabel and Arthur Steele asked relatives and friends for donations to the hospice instead of presents for their Golden Wedding and collected £55.

After dinner speaker Hazel Wilkinson raised £600 while a collection box from George and Susan Baldwin contained £71.

The fund-raising group was one of the first in the area who recognised the need for palliative care services in Burnley and Pendle and began fund-raising to achieve the aim of building the hospice so that care could be given to local people suffering from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Kaye Bartle, fund-raising manager, said: "The group, chaired by Bill and Muriel Badgery, have supported the hospice from the very beginning. Their efforts over the years have been astounding and continue even though the group is now experiencing difficulties in recruiting members."

A cheque will be presented by the group to the hospice on Wednesday at 1.30pm.