DANCERS at a ceilidh helped a Silverdale holiday park to reel in £8,500 for charity.

Holgates' flagship caravan park has thanked the many local residents who supported its dance night for the Cumbria branch of Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Park owner Michael Holgate said the total raised exceeded expectations thanks to the generosity of the hundreds who gave their support.

Mr Holgate's father, Frank, died from pancreatic cancer in January 2015. An early pioneer of holiday parks locally, his original business at Silverdale marks its 61st anniversary this year.

"Fundraising is very much part of our business culture, and we're delighted that so many people in the surrounding area are keen to become involved," said Mr Holgate.

"We also get amazing support from the 100-plus staff we employ, virtually all of whom live in south Cumbria villages and help spread the word about our events.

"In fact, some of the most successful activities we lay on are as a result of their suggestions, and amazing new ideas are flowing all the time."

The traditional dance night, with music from Eden Valley Ceilidh Band, was held at the former Leeds Children's Holiday Camp opposite Silverdale Holiday Park, which has been acquired by Holgates.

Pancreatic Cancer UK is one of several good causes adopted by the caravan park this year, and future activities are to include sponsored sport challenges, raffles, bake-offs and a chance for staff to dress up in purple as part of the charity's national awareness day.

Businesses will also be helping to swell the total, including Robinsons Brewery which this summer will donate 5p from every pint sold of its Dizzy Blonde ale.