THE Primrose Hospice Tree of Light appeal has broken all records by raising a staggering £16,200.

Residents made donations to the charity, which helps cancer victims and their families, in memory of loved ones. This was the hospice's biggest ever total, thrashing the £13,500 collected last year.

Charity fundraiser Lyn Winters said: "We're delighted with the money we raised with this year's appeal.

"We'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the Kingfisher Centre for allowing us to put the tree up behind Debenhams and to everyone who gave so generously."

The charity has organised a number of events over the coming months to raise funds.

The first will be "Burns Supper for the English Ear" on Saturday, January 24, at New Gueston Hall, Avoncroft, Bromsgrove.

This will include fiddling, song and a sumptuous three-course meal. Tickets cost £28.50.

On Saturday, February 14, a Valentine's ball will be held at the Hanover International, Bromsgrove.

The evening includes reception drinks from 7.30pm where guests can have their photos taken while listening to the Brian Hadley Trio.

There will be a four-course meal, wine on the table and music will be provided by Soul Trader.

On Saturday, March 13, there will be a fire-walking event in the grounds of the hospice. There will be a two-hour training session beforehand for people with the courage to take part.

For more details or tickets, call the fund-raising department on 875444.