John's thanks 4,600 times over

AN auction held to raise money for the hospital which treated Rebbeca Watts has raised more than £4,600.

Rebecca's dad John, of Muirfield Close, said he was overwhelmed by the amount of money raised for Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool. Rebecca died of a rare and aggressive form of leukaemia in February, the cause of which is under investigation.

Around 80 people packed into the Pillar of Salt Pub in Leftwich on Friday, April 15, to bid for 52 lots. The most expensive item bought was a Liverpool shirt signed by all the players which raised £210. A 28ins television donated by Muir Housing was sold for £240, while the raffle raised £586.

John said: "We are absolutely over the moon. It was absolutely brilliant. We never expected to raise so much money. "Everyone had a great night."

The Watts family want to thank Joey and Liz, the landlords of the Pillar of Salt pub; Ian Thompson, managing director of Thinkprint, who was auctioneer; Hayley Hodkinson, 16, for doing a sponsored swim and her mum Dawn, manageress, of Roy's Fishing Tackle shop in Castle.

John added: "I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who donated goods and everyone who gave on the night. "Rebecca thanks you too."