Charity bingo night raises £1,400 for specialist care team

Sarah Holland and Claire Bunting receive a cheque from Sandi Baxter and Babs Hunt.

A Richmond-based group has raised more than £1,400 for a local palliative care charity following a successful community fundraising event.

Soroptimist International Richmond and Dales presented a cheque for £1,421 to the Hambleton and Richmondshire Specialist Palliative Care Team after hosting a bingo night at Richmond Town Hall.

The event, held in late 2025, brought together members of the community for an evening of entertainment in support of the charity, which provides care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses.

Organisers said they were delighted with the level of support, with the total raised far exceeding initial expectations.

Babs Hunt, co-president of the group, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the success of our bingo night. The Hambleton and Richmondshire Specialist Palliative Care Team was chosen as our main beneficiary because of the truly great work they do in our local area.

“We hoped we’d be able to donate around £500, so to nearly triple that amount is just brilliant. We know this money will make a real difference to individuals and families receiving the invaluable support of the specialist care team.”

The Hambleton and Richmondshire Specialist Palliative Care Team offers vital services aimed at providing comfort, dignity and support to patients and their families, including care beyond what is typically funded by the NHS.

Sarah Holland, from the team, said: “We are so thankful for this wonderful donation. Every penny helps us enhance the care and support we provide when it’s needed most.”

Soroptimist International Richmond and Dales is part of a global organisation focused on improving the lives of women and girls, with its local branch continuing to support a wide range of community causes.