WHEN Nelson couple Jeff and Lois Needham were organising a joint Ruby Wedding and 60th birthday party they decided to do it all for charity.

They asked friends and relatives to make a donation to Pendleside Hospice instead of bringing presents and raised £300.

The party was held at the Masonic Hall, in Extwistle Street.

Mrs Needham said: "I have raised money for them before but it was quite a surprise how much was donated.

"We thought if you have a party people buy you presents but when you have been married 40 years what do you want? So we thought it would be a good idea to ask for donations because their need is greater than ours."

Kaye Bartle, fundraising manager at the Hospice, said: "We are very grateful to Mr and Mrs Needham for supporting us in this way and congratulate them both on celebrating their Ruby Wedding and Mrs Needham on her birthday."