CHARITY fundraising by a Wilsden woman in memory of her late dad has broken through the £20,000 mark.

Rebecca Jess began coining-in cash for Manorlands seven years ago, in recognition of the care her dad Ian was receiving from the team at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

He died in October, 2018, but 48-year-old Rebecca – a hair stylist at Sharp Cuts salon in Wilsden – has continued with her support of the cause.

"I do this in memory of my wonderful dad," she says.

"My mum and I wanted him to be at home with us, and the Manorlands nurses came to support him. They were all amazing; so kind and considerate."

Rebecca's first fundraiser was a murder mystery games night and raffle, which was supported by family and friends and Sharp Cuts clients.

That was followed by a pub fun day, clothes sales and lockdown initiatives including selling rainbow keyrings and holding an online raffle.

Rebecca currently runs a fascinator and wedding-wear hire service on Facebook, which has already raised more than £500 and is continuing to grow. People are encouraged to donate wedding items they no longer wear to support the cause.

"I manage to organise these events whilst working full-time thanks to help from my family and friends," she says.

"I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to my mum Sheila, sister Sarah and our entire family for their constant support and patience, particularly for putting up with my home being taken over by all the fundraising items!

"I'm also incredibly thankful to my friends, Facebook contacts and clients at Sharp Cuts, as well as everyone else who has supported me with all my events.

"It means the world to me that so many people come along to support everything I do in memory of my dad."

Harriet Wood, senior community fundraiser at Manorlands, says: "Rebecca has been an outstanding fundraiser over the last seven years. It's amazing to see the significant impact one passionate person can have on a larger community. Through her dedication she has not only raised awareness of Sue Ryder’s work, but also managed to generate an impressive amount for Manorlands hospice, which will help us continue supporting people with life-limiting conditions and their families in the region. We are so very grateful for her ongoing support."

For further information about Rebecca’s Fascinator & Headwear & Dress Hire service, go to facebook.com/fascinatorandhathireforcharity