FRIENDS of a popular Hereford man came together to raise hundreds of pounds for a

county hospice in his memory.

Ronnie Hughes died at St Michael's Hospice aged 54 last August, just weeks after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

In his memory, friends and family gathered together on Saturday for an over 50s football game and raised around £900 for the hospice.

The football teams were Leeds United – Ron's favourite – and the Ronnie Hughes All Stars, with around 35 people taking part.

Ronnie's wife, Sharon Hughes, said: "It was brilliant. Ron was a very loved man and St Michael's is a place that touches people's hearts because of what they do and the service they provide – the care is the utmost, it's exceptional, you cannot fault it. "Ronnie called it a five-star room and he was very happy there. People have got together now and have remembered Ron but also this has triggered a seasonal fundraising event which will take place every year."

A fundraising fun day event for St Michael's Hospice is also lined up for August 19 at the Oxford Arms, with wristbands on sale for £10.

There will be a bouncy castle, face painting, a barbecue and in the evening the band, Stoned Love, will perform.

For more information, or for tickets, email sharonhughes15@aol.com