THREE men who have raised £60,000 for charities over six years have decided to dedicate this year’s efforts to Teesside hospice.

Steve McCulloch, Bob Roulston and Ernie Silk have named themselves D.Best and hope to raise £10,000 for the cause in the next 12 months.

The trio have the full support of fellow fun-seekers in their club, the Ormseby Institute in Middlesbrough.

Mr Silk said: “We like to support local charities so we know that every penny raised is spent locally to help people in the local community. Many people in Ormesby Institute have been touched by Teesside Hospice and it would give us great pleasure to be able to give something back’.

The fundraising activities throughout the year will include a number of charity nights held in the club, sponsored events such as a Boxing Day Dip and also a sponsored walk. The first event organised is a Charity Night at Ormesby Institute featuring the show Storm, bingo, raffle and tombola. Taking place on Thursday, July 18, tickets are £2 each and can be purchased by calling 01642 811141.

Leanne Irvine, Community Fundraiser at Teesside Hospice said: “We are thrilled that D. Best have chosen to support the Hospice and it will make a very real difference to those we care for. I would like to say thank you on behalf of Teesside Hospice and good luck for their forthcoming events.”