A KNUTSFORD man held a special charity night at St Vincent de Paul church hall as a thank you to the NHS, the parish and the Christie hospital in Manchester.

Bill Gore, of Legh Road, held the event on Saturday, September 20.

Bill, who has received treatment at the Christie over the past year, told the Guardian that so far £2,237 had been raised for the hospital with more to come.

In his speech to guests, Bill said: "When I look around the room it is hard to put into words how happy I am that you are all here – that we are here together. I am here because of you.

"But my friends and family could not have kept me alive on their own. Not without the second group of people, the consultants, doctors and nurses. It is not just prayers that keep people going. It takes action. And the people in this room helped put me back together – there are reports – rumours, they left a few parts out! But I don’t believe that."

The entertainers on the night included the band of Mr B.Winter Roach, guitarist Dominic Galligan, the Celtic Toes dancers, Duo Sarah and Chris, the Physical Wrecks and the Catenian Male Choir. Knutsford firms who donated items for the auction included Cottons, Pulse of Perfumery and Techno Type.