A COUPLE raised nearly £1,000 for good causes after deciding to do something different in celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary.

Neil and Sara Marchant have both recently received a significant amount of medical treatment – and thought it was time to help others.

Neil, a driver for Watson's fuels, has undergone two cornea operations, while Sara, who works in Hereford County Hospital's pharmacy, has had three heart operations.

And so, they chose to use the celebration, held at Hereford's Richmond Club, to raise money for two very important causes.

With the help of local businesses and performers Benji the Magician, Larry's Disco and Andy B, who offered their services at a reduced price, the charitable pair raised £950 by holding a charity raffle at their party.

All money raised will go to Guide Dogs for the Blind and the British Heart Foundation.

Prizes were donated by Hereford FC, A Plan Insurane, Annie's Café, Mr and Mrs Kett, Weston’s Cider, Waitrose, Asda, Yankee Candle, The Beefy Boys, Cosy Club, Heggies, The Courtyard, Costa Coffee, Avara foods, Marygold Indian, Swift Motors, Bridge Inn at Michaelchurch, Specsavers, H&S Activities and Battlelands.