A North Bersted woman has raised cash for charity

Liz Lawrence achieved the sizeable donation at her fundraising special for St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

Her music night at Yapton Village Hall last Saturday was enjoyed by 170-plus revellers.

The audience danced the hours away to 17 musicians from the Ron Green Big Band.

“It’s just amazing to raise that much money,” said Liz, 50, of Clydesdale Gardens. “I’m blown away by it.

“It was my birthday in January and I asked people to save money on presents for me by making donations on the night.

“I hope nobody else has to use the hospice but, if they do, they will find it’s an amazing place and they will benefit from it like my husband did.”

Her late husband, Nigel Lawrence, died on July 22, 2010, aged 52. He had been admitted to St Wilfrid’s a week beforehand having only become ill five weeks earlier.

Liz planned the hospice’s big night with her two daughters – Danielle and Becky – and helpers including Jake Shoebridge.

Liz also achieved an ambition on the night by singing a few numbers with the 17-strong band.

“I’m a member of BROS Musical Productions but I’ve always had this dream to sing with a big band,” Liz said. “It’s a very different style of singing to the one I’m used to but I love it.”

Danielle also had the guests spellbound with a solo vocal spot.