A bridge club has raised more than £40,000 for a Northwood hospice.

The Sobell Bridge Club, which is based at Mount Vernon Hospital in Rickmansworth Road, has raised £43,000 for the Michael Sobell Hospice between April 2014 and March 2015.

Doug Edmonds, chairman of the club, presented a cheque for £9,000 to Lindsey Fealey, CEO at the hospice on Sunday, March 22. This cash was raised during the last financial quarter of this year.

The Bridge club was set up in May 1992 with two main aims, to provide an opportunity for those bereaved or alone to meet socially in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, as well as encouraging members to support the work of Michael Sobell Hospice.

George Howlett, President of the Bridge Club said, “My wife and I have been coming to the club almost since it began.

"We have seen the club grow from strength to strength and it not only provides us with a place to play Bridge, but it has also opened up so many social opportunities for us and we have gained many friends.

“The club is a special place where often bereaved or lonely people can come along, play Bridge and be with others who have a similar interest in a relaxed and friendly environment.

“We have been on several nice trips with the club and for many of the members it is the only holiday they have each year.

“The standard of the Bridge at the club has definitely improved over the years and we hope to encourage more members in the future and of course keep raising funds for the patients at Michael Sobell Hospice.”