STAFF and customers at The Wellington Pub in Prescot have raised £2,000 in support of Cancer Research UK and local charity Willowbrook Hospice.

The money, to be split equally between the two charities, was raised through a range of events organised by Wellington landlord Harry Stewart and his team.

Guest of honour, actor Ricky Tomlinson, presented the £1,000 cheques at the annual Pensioners’ Christmas Lunch at The Wellington.

Harry said: “I have a personal connection to Willowbrook but both charities are very close to my heart. Cancer Research is working towards future treatment and cures for this horrible disease while Willowbrook provides exceptional, local care for people suffering from cancer and other life-limiting conditions.”

Nicky Saunders, Willowbrook’s fundraising manager, said: “We are very grateful for the generosity of Harry, his team and the customers at The Wellington and hope everyone had fun while raising money for both charities.”

Willowbrook Hospice, in Portico Lane, Prescot, provides end-of-life care for people living in St Helens and Knowsley.