A YORK hotel has raised more than £40,000 for a Martin House Children’s Hospice, Staff, guests and suppliers of the Best Western Monkbar Hotel have helped raise the cash by selling cuddly Marty Bears, which are left on guests pillows with an invitation to be taken home in exchange for a small donation.

And, whilst the hotel is undergoing a £3m renovation, the regular Marty Bears have been swapped for limited edition ones sporting a yellow hi-viz vest.

Other money-raising events included a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party to celebrate the hotel’s 20th birthday and staff completing running and cycling challenges.

General manager Graham Usher said: “We are incredibly grateful to all those who have helped us raise this magnificent amount for Martin House Children’s Hospice.

“Without a shadow of a doubt the sale of Marty Bears has proved incredibly popular, with thousands being taken home each year.

“Now we have reached this milestone, our sights are firmly set on raising the next £10,000 in double quick time.”