A COUPLE has been praised by two charities after organising a successful concert that raised nearly £3,000.

Andrew and Christine Vaughan received the sincere thanks of the Cumbrian Blood Bikes and Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, after receiving £1,200 and £1,500 respectively.

The pair presented the donations on Monday to representatives from the two charities at the Brampton branch of Capontree vets, which had helped in organising the concert.

Raised in a single night, St Martin’s Church in Brampton hosted the Newtown and District Male Voice Choir, a 45-strong choir based in mid-Wales.

Travelling up to Cumbria specifically for the concert, the choir had twice before performed in the church.

Andrew, himself a former member of the choir, explained ahead of the concert that everyone involved in organising the concert “wanted to make sure the money raised went to good causes that help the local community”.

“Both the Blood Bikes and Hospice at Home do fantastic work, so we’re only too happy to do what we can to support them,” he added.

Tickets for the concert were sold at the three branches of Capontree vets - in Brampton, Longtown and Haltwhistle.

Pauline Graham, Capontree practice manager, said along with the rest of the staff at the vet practice, she was “delighted” to help arrange the concert.

“St Martin’s church was full to capacity and we all enjoyed a very special evening,” she said.

“The money raised was overwhelming and will help two wonderful charities. Thank you to everyone for the support.”

Taking to social media to sing the praises of all those involved in the evening, a spokeswoman for the Blood Bikes in Cumbria said the charity “would like to thank everyone involved in the organising of this amazing event.”

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the night too.

“It was a brilliant night,” she added.

Julie Blundell, fundraiser for Hospice at Home said: "I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Newtown Welsh Male Voice Choir, Capontree Vets - all the supporters that helped raised such magnificent funds.

"Hospice at Home trustees, volunteers and supporters who attended the event relayed what a wonderful and enjoyable occasion it was.

"I want to thank all who contributed their time, energy and enthusiasm to ensure this event was truly successful; with this kindness and commitment it ensures that local patients of the future will receive high quality, individualised help, guidance and support from the Hospice at Home Clinical Team members, whilst also giving vital care and support to family members and carers."