A WIDOWER who lost his wife to a stroke has nearly reached his £10,000 fundraising target to help conquer the devastating brain attack.

Charlie Hodges is inviting Worcester residents to enjoy the fish and chip supper to raise funds for the Stroke Association.

Charlie set himself the challenge to reach his £10,000 fundraising milestone this year and will host the event to help him reach the target.

Taking place at Rushwick Village Hall on Saturday, October 31 from 7pm, guests can enjoy live entertainment, a raffle and a quiz along with their fish and chips.

Charlie, 73, from Worcester lost his wife Margaret to a stroke 12 years ago.

A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain.

There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.

He started fundraising for the Stroke Association when he asked for donations for his 70th birthday rather than presents.

He also lost his mother Betty to a stroke in 2013 and has supported the Stroke Association ever since.

Charlie said: “The Stroke Association is a wonderful charity which helps so many stroke survivors across the UK to adjust to their life after stroke.

"I’m really focused on reaching this milestone to help conquer stroke. I want to say a huge thank you to the local community for being so supportive at each of my events and hope to see lots of people join us for some delicious fish and chips.”

Claire Benfield, regional fundraiser for the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for people affected by stroke.

"We’re incredibly grateful to Charlie for his continued support for the Stroke Association. He’s such an inspiration.

"The money will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

Tickets cost £12.50 including fish and chips. For tickets and further information, contact Charlie Hodges on 01905 421354 or 07791 560 818.

For more information about stroke visit www.stroke.org.uk or call our helpline on 0303 303 3100.