A PASSIONATE fundraiser who lost his wife and mother to a stroke has thanked those who helped him raise cash to give victims a better chance of survival and recovery.

Widower Charlie Hodges would like to thank the community for their support at his ‘social evening’ at Ombersley Cricket and Bowls Club on Friday, August 8, which raised vital funds for the Stroke Association.

Mr Hodges, 72, of Newlands Crescent, St John's, Worcester, who lost his wife, Margaret, to a stroke 12 years ago, started fundraising for the charity when he asked for donations for his 70th Birthday rather than presents. Since then he has gone onto raise over £5,000. He also lost his mother, Betty Hodges, 99, last Christmas to a stroke which has only increased his resolve.

The former mechanic and stock car racer said: “I was devastated when I lost my wife and recently I lost my mother to a stroke too. Fundraising for the Stroke Association gives me hope that other families will not have to suffer this loss in the future.”

He added: “We had a fantastic evening in August which raised around £700 for the Stroke Association. Many thanks to Dawn and all the ladies at the cricket club who provided a tremendous buffet in the evening whilst listening to Matthew Long, vocalist, and to Eric who operated a BBQ all afternoon and evening.”

Mr Hodges said the fundraiser had been part of a team effort with support from a number of people, including Eric Hill and Ken Crump. He said: "I could not do it all on my own."

He will be holding his next fundraising event in October. The ‘Fish & Chip supper’ will be held in Rushwick on Saturday, October 25.

For more information call Charlie Hodges on 01905 421324 or 07791 560818 or Eric on 07716340554