A FATHER and daughter team who have raised thousands for Dorothy House Hospice Care were among those recognised by Trowbridge Town Council at its annual town gathering.

Paul and Mica McGonnell, of Dilton Marsh, have worked tirelessly to raise money for Dorothy House since the death of Mr McGonnell’s wife Maria, aged 50, just over a year ago from lung cancer.

She was diagnosed with the condition in April 2012 and Dorothy House, which is based in Winsley, provided help and support to Maria and her family during the following two years.

Mr McGonnell, 54, and his daughter, 18, started fundraising for the charity after requesting donations at his wife’s funeral, before going on to run a 8km Santa dash, walk over hot coals and sell signed memorabilia at the Mayor’s Civic Dinner.

The pair have raised £4,200 in memory of Maria and as a result, they were recognised with a civic certificate along with other dedicated individuals and groups at a ceremony last Tuesday (April 28).

“It was something we wanted to do because my wife attended Dorothy House and the team there provided so much support to us,” said Mr McGonnell.

“The way they looked after Maria and our family was brilliant. They provide so much support for the carer and have always been there if needed, even after Maria passed away.

“The fundraising started off with the Santa dash in December and then my brother helped me get some sport memorabilia, including a signed cricket bat, so we decided to auction that off to raise more money in memory of Maria.

“I still have some items to auction off, so I’m sure we will keep raising money for the charity. I’m also speaking to someone at Dorothy House about doing some volunteer driving for them.”

Further Civic Certificates were given to Alan Pollock, from Friends of Biss Meadow Country Park, Ralph McCaldon, chairman of Trowbridge Town Football Club, and Maggi Hammond for her commitment supporting adult survivors of rape and sexual abuse.

There were also certificates for Julie and Ken Bray, from Friends of Trowbridge Park, Barry Jones, Jo Clews and Laura Fielding, of Bradley Gardens Residents’ Association, Len White, who volunteers for Dorothy House, the Air Cadets and Sea and Army Cadets.