Bents Garden & Home has announced its largest ever charity total, with more than £11,000 raised for its nominated charity in 2010.
Bents set itself a £10k target over the year, in aid of Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey Hospital. However, the fundraising activity exceed expectations and Bents recently invited Ronald McDonald House director Jan Thomas to the Glazebury centre to accept a cheque for £11,722.

Bents md Matthew Bent said: "We are absolutely delighted to have raised so much for the Ronald McDonald House, and believe our money will be used to buy furniture for the 15 new apartments for long stay families at the house.

"A big thank you to all our customers and colleagues who have helped throughout the year to make the campaign a success."

Bents has selected Macmillan Cancer Support as its chosen charity in 2011, and, said Mr Bent "We are now looking forward to working with Macmillan, in what is their centenary year, and are keen to do just as well in 2011."

Mr Bent also made his own pledge to the cause, saying: "Last year I made a personal commitment to the fundraising efforts by completing the 'Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge', as I had had personal experience of the care provided by Ronald McDonald House. All of us are affected by cancer in one way or another, so I'm looking forward to taking on another fundraising challenge later this year... we'll just have to wait and see what it is!"