A FUNDRAISING dinner in aid of the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton’s MRI Scanner Appeal has raised more than £16,000.

Organisers Dr Upendra Somasundram and his wife Shirley said the dinner dance was attended by around 180 people and most of the cash was raised through a raffle and auction of promises.

Guest speaker was Alan Hinkes OBE who spoke about his mountaineering experiences.

Dr Somasundram said: "The event was organised jointly by The Friends of the Friarage, and The Northallerton League of Nurses to raise funds for the Friarage MRI scanner appeal and it was held at The Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton, who sponsored the three-course meal.

"Other major sponsors were Barkers of Northallerton, Sam Turners and Sons, Coles solicitors and Hutton Flowers. Many other local businesses, organisations and individuals contributed with prizes for the raffle and auction of promises."

Auction prizes included a trip to the Houses of Parliament, golf at Rockliffe Hall, cricket bats signed by Ian Botham, bed and breakfast at Solberge Hall, a quad bike experience, a family ticket to the Herriot Museum in Thirsk and a football signed from Middlesbrough Football Club.

"I would like to thank all who contributed to this successful event in so many different ways," said Dr Somasundram.