GRATEFUL grandad Lennie Herbert is raising funds to say thankyou to the hospital which saved his grandaughter's life.

A year ago toddler Isabella White, of Cross Street, Oswaldtwistle, was fighting for life in Pendlebury Children's Hospital, Manchester, after being struck down by the killer bug meningitis.

Today she is a happy and healthy three-year-old, described by her grandad as "a little belter".

Lennie is president of Poplar WMC, in Accrington, where plans are underway for a charity night to buy equipment for the hospital.

Now he is hoping to rally support for the event from other families who have reason to be grateful to Pendlebury.

Lennie said: "People who have been in the same position as my family and have had to make use of the hospital will realise how urgently funds are needed."

He said the charity evening, on Saturday October 3, would be for the whole family, featuring children's fancy dress and two artists.

Federation Brewery are sponsoring the artists but Lennie is appealing for people to sponsor other parts of the event or help with the organising.

A similar event last year raised £1,800.

This time there is already £2,500 in the kitty, including £1,000 raised at a dance by the Television and Radio Industries Club in the North West, of which Lennie is chairman.

Anyone who would like to get involved can contact him on 01254 871020, or at the Poplar Club in the evening on 01254 231280.

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