AN exceptional team of fundraisers called Charlie’s Angels is celebrating after raising nearly £100,000 for MS patients.

Kind-hearted great-grandmother Pat Hardy, 79, and her friends Dianne Fairclough, Brenda Dobson, and Judith Murgatroyd – who are also all in their seventies – have worked tirelessly to raise the money for the York branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The group earned their nickname in honour of York MS sufferer Charlie Harrison, who was cared for by Dianne and Pat before they retired.

Over the 22 years since launching their fundraising effort, the huge amount of money raised by the quartet has mainly gone to funding ambulances to help take patients to hospital, on visits and out on day trips.

Pat said: “We just love the people, they are all our friends. We just do it because we love them. I am pleased we are getting to the £100,000 mark but I wouldn’t say we feel proud – we just do what we can.

“After we reach that point I shall just do what I’m doing. If I have got anything to sell, I shall carry on.”

Pat and Dianne, both of Woodland Way in Huntington, began fundraising in 1991, when they held their first fundraising event for the cause, and a few years later they were joined by long-time friends Brenda and Judith.

Money has been raised through collecting items for car boot sales and a Charlie’s Angel’s annual Christmas fair as well as events, car boot sales and parties.

They have been given the Shining Star Award from the MS Society – the charity’s highest award to recognise outstanding commitment and support.

Pat, who also attends the MS Society’s weekly get-together at New Earswick Folk Hall, said about reaching the £100,000 mark: “Charlie would have loved it, he was a fantastic man.”

It is hoped a country music night starring the Hayley Sisters at Huntington Working Men’s Club on March 8 will tip the fundraising over the £100,000 mark.

• Anyone who would like to donate gifts and toiletries to help with the cause should visit the Alan Bott Centre in Melrosegate, York.