Pub regulars toast barmaid's efforts to boost charity (From Messenger Newspapers)

Sale pub's regulars toast barmaid's efforts to boost charity

3:00pm Thursday 28th February 2013 in News

A SALE pub’s regulars are toasting a barmaid who, with their help, has raised more than £200 for cancer research by giving up the booze for a month.

Mum-of-two Maria Murphy 48, who works at The Railway, in Chapel Road, made the pledge as her New Year’s Resolution.

And customers at the pub and other friends quickly volunteered to sponsor her if she succeeded.

“They’ve been superb,” said Maria. “They realised it was for a worthwhile cause and soon started digging into their pockets.”

She added: “Most of us know someone who has died or suffered from cancer.

“My own father, Gerard – known to his pals as Spud – died from the dreaded illness nine years ago so cancer research is close to my heart.”

So how did Maria’s first tipple of her favourite drink – cognac – taste?

“Marvellous!” she quipped. “Cheers to everybody for helping me, especially our local customers.”

Railway landlord Glenn Street said: “Maria is very popular with our customers. We’re extremely proud of her and are raising our glasses to her.”

Jane Redman, a spokesperson for Cancer Research, said: “Giving up alcohol for the whole of January is no mean feat, particularly if you work in a pub.

“We are very grateful to Maria for showing such will power and raising such a large sum of money for our vital research.”