A WORCESTER widower who lost his wife and mother to strokes has raised £10,000 for a charity which helps others who have suffered the brain attack.

Charlie Hodges, 73, of Worcester, lost his wife Margaret to a stroke 13 years ago.

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

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

Mr Hodges has regularly held a series of local fundraising events, including his most recent fish and chipper supper in October which saw him reach his £10,000 target.

Mr Hodges said: “The Stroke Association is a charity close to my heart, which helps so many stroke survivors across the UK to adjust to their life after stroke.

"I’d like to thank everyone who has supported my events over the last three years, with a special mention to my friends Eric Hall and Ken Crump who have worked work tirelessly to help me organise all the events.

Thanks also to Startin Honda Worcester and First Page Printers who have supported my fundraising.”

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 are incredibly grateful to Charlie and all his supporters for raising such an amazing amount of money over the last three years.

"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.”

Mr Hodges is continuing his fundraising efforts with a Music Special in partnership with the Blue Bell in Callow End.

The event will take place on Friday, March 11 from 11am onwards and will include tea and coffee, a light lunch and entertainment by singer Matthew Long.

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.