THE parents of a Redruth girl who spent three weeks in hospital with septic arthritis have held a fundraising event for her care team.

Family and friends of Olivia Pascoe joined together at Portreath Surf Life Saving Club to raise money for Polkerris Ward at Treliske Hospital, Truro.

Dad Darren said: “I couldn’t believe how much we raised. We had a fundraising target in mind which we smashed! Everyone’s generosity was over and above and anything we could have expected.”

The event, attended by more than 200 people, started in the afternoon with family activities and a visit from the Tolvaddon Fire Station crew.

Fundraising continued into the evening with food and drink a raffle of more than 60 items donated by local businesses and music provided by locals Nick Williams, Kaj Skjervik and Finlay Barber on the drums.

Laura Allsworth, event organiser and family friend, said: “All generations of the village came together to make the day so successful, it is great that we still has such a connected community that all come together on these occasions and they are great fun.” said Laura.

Olivia, a pupil at Treleigh School in Redruth, returned to Polkerris Ward to hand over the donation of £2012.80 and her parents, Darren and Becky were able to say a personal thanks to some of the team that cared for their daughter.

“The whole team were amazing, the doctors, nurses, play specialists and even the lady that brought around the lunches,” said Becky.

Dan Worrin, charge nurse, accepted the donation on behalf of the team and explained how their contribution would be put to good use,

“We are so grateful for donations to our fund, together they allow us to buy additional pieces of kit that enhance the care that we provide to patients. Thank you to everyone that supported Olivia’s fundraising we are very grateful for your kind support,” said Dan.

Thanks are given to everyone that supported the event and to local businesses that donated to the fundraiser. Cornish Orchards, Philp’s Bakery, Portreath Arms, several local hairdressers and many others.