A ladies’ night at VAO Restaurant in Sale was a big success as family and friends honoured the memory of John Cawley, who died in February 2015.

More than £6,000 was raised for St Ann’s Hospice which cared for John, also from Sale, who worked in construction until his retirement and who was widely known, loved and respected by the Irish community.

Some £2,660 came from a raffle and auction of a signed copy of Sir Alex Ferguson’s autobiography held by the Irish Golf Society at Northenden Golf Club.

The event was organised by John’s daughter Mary Howley and family member Amanda O’Sullivan, General Manager at VAO at Waterside Plaza, an Italian Restaurant that each year dedicates a fundraising night to charity.

Mary said: “We sold out in record time as everyone feels close to St Ann’s Hospice.

“Every charity is so worthy but St Ann’s is close to so many hearts.

“Dad spent his final weeks at St Ann’s and the love, support and comfort given not only to my father but all our family will never be forgotten.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their generous support in helping Amanda and I raise such a phenomenal amount.”