Businesses donate hundreds in top prizes for fundraiser in memory of Hartlepool's Nicola Kenny

Nicola Kenny Bonus Ball organiser Glen Hughes with some of the prize hampers donated by local firms.

Businesses have donated hundreds of pounds worth of great prizes for a fundraiser in memory of a much-loved member of the community.

Hotel stays, shopping vouchers, hampers and much more have been given to the Nicola Kenny Bonus Ball with all the money raised going to the family of Nicola who died early this month from cancer aged just 43.

It is the idea of Nicola’s friend and fellow Hartlepool hospital campaigner Glen Hughes.

A total of 26 local businesses offered their support by generously giving a host of great gifts.

One winner will scoop the lot to be decided by the bonus ball from this Saturday’s Lotto draw (Saturday, January 16).

Glen said: “I’d known Nicola for a while. She was the maddest person ever but the most genuine, helpful and caring person ever too.

"If you ever needed her she would be there.

"I’ve been blown away by the amount of prizes businesses have been willing to donate especially at this moment in time.

"One person is going to be a very lucky winner.”

Other examples of prizes up for grabs include a midweek stay at the Town House at Durham, £50 car valet courtesy of Grime Geek Detailing, a child’s wall print with Baby Abode and free engraving with First Class.

More than £1,100 has been raised so far as entrants pay £25 for one of 59 possible bonus ball numbers.

There are still a few numbers available.

Glen, whose own works company Orangebox Training has also contributed a £20 Amazon voucher, added: "A lot have put a great effort into the prizes.

“It always amazes me this town how we pull together for one another.

"Everything we make will go to Nicola’s family to decide how they want to use it.”

Nicola, of the Headland, who was a devoted mum to three sons and beloved sister and daughter, supported numerous local causes and was a teaching assistant at St Bega’s Primary School.

Her family have started an online fundraising page in aid of Alice House Hospice and also hope to get a memorial bench on the Headland.

Anyone wishing to take part in the bonus ball competition should contact Glen Hughes on Facebook.

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