MOURING the loss of her close friend Neil Thompson, Deana Emson decided to commemorate his life and raise cash for charity at the same time.

Along with Neil's family and friends, she began organising a series of fundraising events to repay staff at St Rocco's Hospice who nursed her friend while he was ill.

The father-of-two died from cancer in June, aged 42.

As a patient at St Rocco's, he had received round-the-clock care and dedication from staff.

Earlier this year, Deana organised a ladies night at the Phoenix in Stockton Heath where members of Hard Labour gym in Latchford volunteered to be slaves, raising £1,800 through the auction and donations.

This week a gentleman's night at the same venue has added to that sum.

And on Monday, November 7 at Chicago Rock, another event, held in partnership with Andrew Moran Hairdressing, Sankey Street, will raise yet more cash for the hospice.

Deana, aged 42, of Cawdor Street, Stockton Heath, said: "The events were a way of helping to take our minds off our grief, helping us cope and channel what we were feeling into something else. It was also a way of making sure everyone knew just how special Neil was.

"I'd never done anything like this before and was surprised at how easy it was. It really helped us and also helped the hospice.

"It's only when something like this touches you personally that you realise just how invaluable St Rocco's is and the tremendous work that staff there do.

"We wanted to give something back to thank them for the care that Neil received.

"I visited St Rocco's after Neil's death and was amazed by the place. I expected it to be completely different, a very sterile place but it wasn't like that at all, it's very homely and so tranquil, it's a very special place."

For information about the Chicago Rock/Andrew Moran event call Deana on 07811 133742.