DERRIFORD Hospital's oncology department has received a £1,600 boost thanks to the efforts of a charity fundraising walk in West Devon.

In May, almost 200 walkers took part in the fourth annual Leafy Lanes walk around Lydford and Bridestowe, organised by Pals of Plymouth Oncology Outpatients and Chemotherapy (POOCH).

Organiser David Hocking said: 'I am so very very grateful to everyone who took part in the Leafy Lanes walk, raising money for such a vital department down in Plymouth.'

On the day a donation was made to remember ten-year-old Daniel William Bruce, who recently died after a battle with leukaemia. £200 was donated to share between CLIC Sargent and Derriford's Children Cancer Service. Both charities support youngsters battling cancer.

Pals of POOCH also recently commissioned some paintings by local artist Laura Wall to the hospital for the waiting room in the oncology department, and for Derriford's Woodcock children's ward.

David said: 'The pictures have now been hung up, and are proving to be a huge success. People seem to be enjoying them, and we are very happy with them.'

The fundraisers at POOCH are not resting on their laurels either, with two special concerts planned for July to raise more money.

David said: 'After the walk, people are coming forward and wanting to raise funds for POOCH. It is very heartwarming to see.'

On Saturday, July 7 at 7pm in Whitchurch Community Hall, guests can enjoy a night of clarinet music by Clarinet Caboodle, with clarinet players performing a selection of light classics, from Grieg to Gershwin.

Tickets cost £5 each, with the money to be split between Clarinet Caboodle and POOCH.

For tickets, call David Lambert on 01752 211572, Laura Washer on 01752 816392, and David Hocking on 07899 916959.

On Friday, July 13, the Nicholls Hall in Lydford will host a night of music from Walter Shortage and the Hose Pipe Banned, Firefly and Indie Thompson starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £5 for adults or £3 for under 16s. They are available from the Hox and Hounds Hotel, the Castle Inn, or from Yvonne Watson on 07883 945933.