AS well as celebrating in style at his 70th birthday party, Albert Kennedy wanted to do something to help orthopaedic patients at his local hospital.

So he asked revellers at his party in the village hall at Leeming, where he lives, to make donations to the Allen ward at Northallerton's Friarage Hospital instead of buying him gifts.

Thanks to their generosity, £230 was donated to the ward.

Mr Kennedy wanted to thank staff for the care and support he received as a patient at the hospital.

He regularly helps the orthopaedic wards and has taken part in two of the sponsored walks for orthopaedic patients, organised by the Hopalong group every two years.

Clinical matron Jane Bradshaw said: "We are absolutely delighted that Albert chose us to receive the donation and it was kind of him to think of us at this special birthday celebration.

"We will use the money towards medical equipment to benefit future patients."