A WOMAN has used her milestone birthday to raise an astounding amount of money for charity.

Marieke Haigh, part of the family-run Haigh's Farm Shop in Mirfield, uniquely celebrated her 50th birthday by hosting a barn party that raised £50,472 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) and The Kirkwood Hospice.

From this total, Yorkshire Air Ambulance received £25,236, a significant contribution that will offer vital ongoing support for the charity’s missions.

The celebration drew hundreds of attendees, who generously supported the two crucial charitable causes, while marking Marieke's milestone birthday. 

Marieke said: "I'm overwhelmed by the incredible donations my birthday auction received. It is truly beyond fantastic to witness how a celebration can transform into an opportunity to make a significant difference for such important charities like Yorkshire Air Ambulance and The Kirkwood Hospice.

"To be able to raise over £50,000 for my 50th birthday is truly humbling - £1,000 for each year of my life!!."

Stef Maynard, West Yorkshire Community Fundraiser at YAA, who attended the cheque presentation, said: "Marieke has been an unwavering supporter since 2018, demonstrated through her personal fundraising efforts and the consistent support from Haigh's Farm Shop.

"Her steadfast commitment to giving back to charitable organisations, such as ours, is undeniably inspiring."