Hospital charity boost as Echo Beach band play in memory of Neil

FRIENDS and family of a man who died from lung cancer gathered to raise over £1,000 for the Rotherham Hospital and Community charity.

Two of the charity’s most dedicated supporters, Vanessa Lockwood and Pauline Hirst, organised the annual event, put on at Treeton Miners Welfare Club in January.

Together, they raised £1,425 from the fundraiser — which included a raffle, bingo and music from band Echo Beach — which was held in honour of Pauline’s husband Neil who died at Rotherham Hospital following a short battle with lung cancer in 2014, aged 56.

Vanessa, of Treeton, said: “We absolutely love fundraising for the charity because it helps to keep Neil’s memory alive.

“Our recent club night was brilliant once again and it was wonderful to see the club packed with our families, friends and everyone from the village. 

“Thank you to everyone who has stuck with us for more than a decade, it really does mean so much to us.

“ We’re really proud to have raised so much again for a charity which is close to our hearts.”

The pair have raised more than £13,000 in 12 years for the charity.

Rachael Dawes, head of fundraising, said: “We are so proud to have fundraisers like Pauline and Vanessa who have supported the charity for many years. 

“Their club night was a resounding success once again and a lovely way for Neil’s family and friends to come together and remember him.”

For more information about the charity, or about fundraising, contact Suzanne Rutter or Rachael Dawes on 01709 426821 or [email protected].