DESPITE being 78, Ruth Rae is dedicated in her quest to help much-loved Sale charity Stockdales, raising £4,500 in just one year, with a little help from her Friends.

Ruth began fundraising for Stockdales, which supports and cares for children, young people and adults with learning difficulties and physical disabilities, more than 14 years ago.

She raises money through car boot sales and bric a brac stalls at supermarkets across Trafford, sourcing her stock from house clearances and donations from friends, family and people who have heard about her charitable work.

Ruth and Friends’ most recent bric a brac sale took place at Tesco in Sale on September 23, raising more than £300, and she will be back at the store on Friday October 14.

Stockdales’ fundraising manager Natalie James said: “Our special thanks goes to Ruth and her friends for their hard work and continued support. Year on year, Ruth presents us with cheques for thousands of pounds and we really cannot thank her enough.

"Her efforts make such a difference to local people with learning disabilities, helping them to live life to the full and become more independent.”