BURY Hospice's hard-working special events committee showed their appetite for success after raising a staggering £17,000 at its annual ladies lunch.

The event, which took place at the town's San Rocco Restaurant, invited 110 women to enjoy a glass or two of bubbly in name of Bury Hospice.

The ladies lunch is now in its third year of raising money for the hospice, now located on Rochdale Old Road, and which provides end-of-life care and support to patients.

Sponsored by Pennine Telecom, the champagne luncheon featured entertainment from singer Rachel Hudson and local magician Ian Lavin. Popular radio and TV presenter Andy Crane was the event’s master of ceremonies.

Bury celebrity Lisa Riley helped boost funds by auctioning off a dance session with herself and Strictly Come Dancing partner Robin Windsor.

The special events committee has raised a total of £61,426 since its first event in 2013, with the help of sponsors and Ramsbottom photographer Martin Stembridge.

For more information about the committee: call 0161 447 8814.