A GROUP of Redditch-based fundraisers have split their annual collection between two local charities at their annual presentation evening.

It was the first time in its 26 year history that Redditch Big Hearts, which is based in Headless Cross, has split its funding.

The two charities to benefit from the split were Touchstones, which supports children and young people in north east Worcestershire who are coping with the death of someone they love, and Trudy’s Trust, which was set up in memory of Trudy Shingler who died from an aggressive brain tumour. It raises awareness and funds for brain tumour research, and supporting families who have lost a loved one to a brain tumour.

A spokesperson for Redditch Big Hearts, said: “We all felt that the two new local charities both deserved our help. So rather than collect for one and postpone the other or just do a ‘one off’ event, we all decided to do a ‘joint fund.

“Without the support of all the people in Headless Cross & Redditch we would not be able to help this worthwhile cause.”

Vicki Quatron, organiser of Touchstones, was presented with a cheque for £2,018.38. She said: “I could not believe that such a fantastic amount of money could be raised.”

Barrie Watts, organiser for Trudy’s Trust, was joined by Mark Leeson, Trudy’s father.

He added: “What an amazing evening at the Redditch Big Hearts presentation evening. A wonderful effort by RBH and a fantastic organisation to be associated with. We are so proud to have their support and again, cannot thank them all enough. God bless to all of them and the wonderful people who just keep donating when times are so tough.”

The Redditch Big Hearts accept donations by post to: Redditch Big Hearts, c/o The Rocklands Club, Rookery Close, Headless Cross, Redditch, B97 4LB.