A WIDOWER has launched a fundraising campaign in memory of his wife, who died from cancer.

The Shildon community has rallied to help fish and chip shop owner Danny Scott raise money for the Butterwick Hospice at Bishop Auckland.

So far, £2,200 has been raised for the Betty Scott Appeal through a variety of events.

Local businesses donated prizes for a raffle at the Elm Road Club, Shildon, which raised £1,000.

An evening at the Railway Institute featuring Just Michelle and local band Resthouse raised a further £1,000.

John Bennett, from Benny's Fish Bar, in the town, raised £200 by hosting a barbecue, and Garnett Coaches, in Bishop Auckland lent a vehicle for a sponsored bus pull.

Mr Scott, 53, said he and his sister-in-law, Sylvia Ellwood, were delighted with the support they had received.

He said: "It is excellent the way people have worked with me. Nobody has turned me down.''

Mrs Scott, who left a daughter Vanessa, 29, and son Daniel, 22, died in May, aged 51. She enjoyed entering competitions in The Northern Echo, once winning a makeover and a year's free tickets for shows at the Newcastle Arena.

Mr Scott is now planning a talent show and is looking for people to take part in the event at the Railway Institute.

He said: "I am putting up £300 of my own money as the prize."

Anyone wishing to enter the contest or give money to the appeal can contact Mr Scott on (01388) 778767.