STAFF and friends at a market town pub have raised hundreds of pounds for the hospital where the landlord spent his last days.

Nigel Towler, who ran The Greyhound Inn at Bagby, near Thirsk, with his wife Hilary, died in August having suffered from brain cancer.

Mr Towler was cared for at The Lambert Memorial Hospital, in Thirsk.

To show their appreciation, pub staff held a fundraising night for the hospital.

Gemma Taylor, who works behind the bar and described the couple as her second family, helped organise the night.

She said: "We all miss him terribly and wanted to do something really big in his honour."

More than £700 was raised on the evening, with more being added to the kitty every day with the sale of calendars.

The events included arm wrestling, drinking races and raffles.

International strongman Rob Dixon, who raised more than £100 by lifting ladies, said: "I was happy to help raise money for such a good cause: we all had a fantastic night."

Landlady Mrs Towler said: "We have been at the pub for ten years and since I lost my husband, everybody has been so kind and helpful.

"I think the fundraising evening was smashing and the money couldn't go to a more fabulous hospital.

"The staff had hearts of gold. I know Nigel would be chuffed to bits."

Hospital sister Trisha Paterson said: "It is always pleasing to see how well supported the hospital is by families and we are delighted to hear of events taking place to raise money.

"All the staff and patients will benefit from the generous donation."