AN INSPIRATIONAL West Devon fundraiser is hoping to see a bumper bunch of supporters at three fun events he is organising for this December.

David Hocking of Lydford, who has raised many thousands of pounds for charity over the last few years, is hoping the three events will prove a big boost for POOCH — the Pals of Plymouth Oncology Outpatients and Chemotherapy.

The three events being organised by David are all at the Fox and Hounds pub at Bridestowe. The first is a 'Breakfast at the Fox' on Saturday December 10, between 8.30am and 10.30am. Tickets are £8 for adults and children U14, £4.

The second event will be a Christmas bingo lunch, on Monday, December 12 at noon.

The third is an opportunity to dust off the thinking caps after the Christmas festivities with a quiz, on Thursday December 29 at 8pm — £5 per team of four.

All funds raised will go towards two specially commissioned paintings by former Tavistock artist Laura Wall.

One will be sited in Derriford Hospital's Oncology Department's reception area, the other in Woodcock Ward, which is a children's ward.

David said: 'Laura's paintings are really bright, cheerful and quirky — the manager in the oncology department is really excited about having one, and Sister Wendy in the children's ward is really looking forward to it.

'The more money we can raise, the more detail Laura will be able to put in the painting.'

Laura said: 'I feel very privileged they've chosen me to paint the picture. It wasn't until I went down to the ward and saw the amount of people, who were obviously really ill, waiting for treatment, sometimes for hours, every day, that I realised how a picture could help.

'If it raises just one smile or makes someone feel a bit brighter, it will be worth it, and to have Dave behind something like this is brilliant — he is just inspirational.'

Laura said the picture would depict areas from West Devon down to Plymouth, including images such as Dartmoor, the 'cathedral' trees at Bridestowe, Brentor, Plymouth Hoe, walkers, duck races — anything to do with the area and activities that people have done to raise money.

'There will be lots of fun and laughter in it — the aim is that every time you see it, you spot something different,' said Laura.

l David would also like to hear from anyone who would like to stage a fundraising event for POOCH.

He said: 'The oncology department at Derriford is amazing, the money we donate goes towards small pieces of equipment that make a real difference and you will never stop people like me wanting to say thank you to them.

'It could be individuals, clubs or organisations that might want to do a cycle ride, run, any sort of sponsored event, but really, every little bit, however small, helps.'

Tickets for the three fundraisers at the Fox and Hounds are available from the pub or from David, on 07899 916959. Anyone who wishes to make a donation towards POOCH can call David on the above number or email [email protected]">[email protected]

For more information on POOCH, go to http://www.palsofpooch.org">www.palsofpooch.org