THE Knutsford community has come together to raise thousands of pounds for three Cheshire charities.

After enjoying a Platinum Jubilee street party with their Sandileigh Avenue neighbours, hairdresser Richard Illingworth-Harrison and his husband Scott were inspired to hold a fundraising event.

The couple decided to hold a charity dinner, which was held at Lost & Found in Knutsford on September 16.

Guests enjoyed a three-course meal and fizz on arrival before being entertained by singer Alexander Stewart during the evening.

Knutsford Guardian: Aaron Fawcett, Amy Ingamells and Alexis Martin (Richard Illingworth-Harrison)Aaron Fawcett, Amy Ingamells and Alexis Martin (Richard Illingworth-Harrison) (Image: Richard Illingworth-Harrison)

A raffle also took place on the night with prizes donated by local businesses including, but not limited to, MAK Aesthetics, Toni and Guy and Pulse of Perfumery.

Richard was delighted to raise more than £4,000 for the chosen charities - The Christie Charity, The Children's Adventure Farm Trust and Lower Moss Wood Wildlife Sanctuary.

Knutsford Guardian: Carl Austin-Behan, Richard Illingworth-Harrison, Scott Illingworth-Harrison, Simon Austin-Behan (Richard Illingworth-Harrison)Carl Austin-Behan, Richard Illingworth-Harrison, Scott Illingworth-Harrison, Simon Austin-Behan (Richard Illingworth-Harrison) (Image: Richard Illingworth-Harrison)

He said: "I had a target in my head of raising £3,000 so that I could give each chosen charity £1,000 each, but we went way over target which felt incredible!

"I was so proud when we calculated the total. Most of the money raised came from the raffle on the night which totalled £2,500, the rest came from leftover ticket sales and kind donations from friends and family and also some of my clients.

"I want to say a massive thank you to everyone that made it possible, especially my husband Scott in organising everything.

Knutsford Guardian: Sarah Berry and Jo Torrie (Richard Illingworth-Harrison)Sarah Berry and Jo Torrie (Richard Illingworth-Harrison) (Image: Richard Illingworth-Harrison)

"We really enjoyed hosting this event and look forward to doing more and keep raising money for wonderful charities.

"Since moving to Knutsford four years ago, we just love it here and adore the community spirit of everyone, so we know any future events will be successful and enjoyed by everyone."

The couple hope to put on more events in future, which will be linked to the Cheshire Almanac -  a local business directory and community hub Scott is currently building.