THE family of a man who collected thousands of pounds for good causes hosted a special fundraising night for Arrowe Park Hospital's children's ward in his memory.

Over the course of 20 years Billy Birch raised more than £113,000 for local charities.

The 76-year-old, from Ellesmere Port died surrounded by his family including children Mally, Neil, Stephen and Cheryl, at the Countess of Chester Hospital in December, 2017.

He began his charitable campaign since losing his beloved wife Sylvia to cancer in 1991.

The dedicated campaigner raised funds for various groups,including Arrowe Park Hospital and Countess of Chester Hospital.

His family have been determined to continue fundraising in his memory and the special night saw more than £1,000 of new toys and play equipment being donated to the children's ward at Arrowe Park.

Billy's three sons delivered the mountain of gifts on the anniversary of their father's anniversary, accompanied by Mayor of Ellesmere Port Cllr Karen Shore.

Mally said: "It was an absolute honour and privilege for me and my family to be part of such a special occasion handing over toys and gifts in memory of our dad to the children's ward on the first anniversary of his passing.

"Seeing children smiling and being happy was my dad's most rewarding aspect from all the charity events that he had covered."

Victoria Burrows, head of fundraising for the hospital trust, said: "I would like to thank the Birch family and everyone who has been involved for their generosity.

"On behalf of all the staff and children who will benefit from all the wonderful gifts thank you so much.

"They have been incredibly generous and we were all touched to be included in remembering their father in such a kind and special way."