A support group comprising just three people has achieved a major milestone in its fundraising for Manorlands hospice.

The trio – Tracey Moore, Jane Taggart and Pat Chadwick – has now raised £20,000 since the group’s formation in 2008.

The women had hoped to reach their landmark amount by the end of the year, but attained it ahead of schedule with a stall at an event in Shelf.

The Halifax-based support group was launched after Tracey’s mum, who was also Pat’s sister-in-law, was cared for at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

After Tracey held a 50th birthday party requesting donations to Manorlands, she was put in touch with Jane, who was also seeking to support the hospice in recognition of the care it gave to her husband.

“I wanted to give something back to Manorlands and so did Jane so the hospice put us in contact with each other – the rest is history, as they say!” said Tracey.

“The three of us are thrilled to have reached this target and we’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported us with our fundraising efforts over the years.”

Sue Ryder regional fundraiser Hayley Ibbotson paid tribute to the trio.

“To raise such a fantastic amount of money really is testament to all the hard work and dedication of Tracey, Jane and Pat,” she said.

“Over the years these funds will have helped a number of our patients and their families and we are very grateful for the support.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you on behalf of everyone here at Manorlands on their incredible achievement.”

Anyone interested in setting up a support group or joining an existing one should call 01535 640430 or e-mail Hayley.ibbotson@sueryder.org.