A DINNER to celebrate a hotel’s 50th anniversary has raised more than £5,000 for a hospice.

The money was raised for St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham, at the end of a formal dinner held at Ramside Hall Hotel, near the city, to celebrate its 50 years of trading.

Business leaders and dignitaries donated £5,160.

Fiona Vallis, the hospice’s deputy chief executive, said: “We’re so grateful that the hotel chose St Cuthbert’s as the sole beneficiary of their charity collection on such an important occasion.

“And we’re overwhelmed that so many different people gave so much for our cause.

“Ramside Hall has been a staunch and long-standing supporter of St Cuthbert’s Hospice. I was delighted and proud to receive the cheque.”

Tim Boyd, the hotel’s general manager, said the 340 guests did not need a second invitation to donate and he was proud to hand the money over.