ST LEONARD'S Hospice has benefited from the biggest fundraising event run by the Rotary Club of York.

The club's dragon boat race, which took place in July, raised £48,000, which will go to the hospice to buy a van.

Club president Robin Rich said: "The outcome far exceeded our most optimistic expectations. It was the biggest fundraising event in the Rotary Club's 83 years' existence and certainly justified the efforts of our members who planned and organised the day.

"The main credit, however, goes to the team members who must be congratulated for raising so much sponsorship money."

Martyn Callaghan, chief executive of St Leonard's Hospice, said the van would be used to help the invaluable work of the charity's shops and remaining money would be for a new video about St Leonard's to attract additional supporters.

Next year's boat race is planned for Sunday, July 11. Interested teams should phone 01904 611522.

Updated: 08:51 Monday, November 17, 2003