As local voluntary group Hyde Fundraisers reach an impressive 40^th anniversary milestone this year they have launched their fundraising in style. The group, who have been raising money for BBC Children in Need and other good causes since 1985, held a special event at the award-winning Indian Plaza in Audenshaw. The ‘Character Curry’ fundraising event was held in association with the restaurant and Councillor Denise Ward. Journalist and former Coronation Street actor Nigel Pivaro ( AKA Terry Duckworth) also came along to lend his support and the group also thanked Andy Hoyle for his contribution.

The restaurant hosted R2D2, a Dalek, Batman, Joker, Wolverine, Deadpool, Predator, Kylo Ren, Spiderman and even a baby dinosaur during the night.

SP Bowling from Hyde Fundraisers said: “We have never done anything like this before, but it was an amazing evening, and we are so grateful for everyone’s support. Special thanks go to those who donated to our raffle including Hyde boxer Ricky ‘Hitman’ Hatton who sent a signed boxing glove, a signed Gazza print and Star Cutouts in Audenshaw. The restaurant staff were amazing, and we appreciate their support in the funds we raised on the evening. We were bowled over to raise £2200 in total which will support BBC Children In Need and other charities this year”

During the evening the group made three donations with £300 given to The Anthony Seddon Fund, £300 towards Tameside Rotary’s Ukrainian Baby Incubator Appeal and £100 towards the work of Hyde Memorial Trust. Currently the group have a display at Specsavers in Ashton and are contributing to a special Doctor Who exhibition at Peterborough Museum between May and September.  This Summer they will also once again return to Ashton for the popular Sci-Fi Day on July 5^th.

Images Howard Murphy/MM/KT