STRETFORD shoppers proved just how generous they are after more than £1,400 was raised for Francis House Children’s Hospice in only two weeks.

The charity - which supports young people with life-limiting illnesses and their families - held a pop-up toy store in the market hall, and visitors to the centre responded by purchasing a staggering £1,429 worth of toys.

Stretford Mall centre manager, Gareth Wilkins, praised the generosity of the people of Stretford for the amount contributed.

He said: “This is a quite remarkable amount to raise in such a short space of time.

“We know how charitable our shoppers are but this is going above and beyond. It’s a really impressive amount of money that will make such a difference to the charity and in turn those that are cared for by Francis House Children’s Hospice.

“We understand the role that we play in the Stretford community and really believe in supporting charities wherever possible. The charity currently needs to raise £4.2 million each year to be able to continue to care for those that need it the most in Greater Manchester. I’m thrilled that we’re able to help raise money towards that all-important target.

“I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who purchased a toy from the charity. I’m overawed at the fact that more than £1,400 was raised in the centre. It’s a truly impressive total.”

Mary Gillatt, Francis House Children’s Hospice fundraising officer, said: “The people of Stretford have supported Francis House since it opened more than 25 years ago and once again they have been very generous.

“Raising £4.2 million each year isn’t easy, but with the support of people from across Greater Manchester and beyond, we are able to continue to provide and develop the services we offer to the families and children who rely on us for care.

“We are very grateful to the management at Stretford Mall for giving us the opportunity to hold the toy sale and to market traders for their help and support too.”