JENNY Howarth and Christine Mallinson had been friends since they qualified as homeopaths together. Hitting age 65 within a few months of each other, they decided to celebrate with a special fund-raising afternoon. So, on Saturday 14 July, they held a garden tea-party at the Ilkley Moor Vaults in aid of the Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice. In spite of stiff competition from tennis, football and cycling – live and on TV – the beautiful weather brought out the crowds. Scrumptious cakes were provided by The Gables Nursing Home, founded by Christine, and by generous bakers. Gifts for a tombola, raffle and auction, kindly donated by local businesses, therapists and friends, attracted the punters.

The auction included a stunning piece of glass by Ilkley artist Christine Bailey, a horse-whispering session, music tuition and gifts of time from an architect, a social media trainer and a solicitor of wills. Ivor Hughes, formerly of Mayfair Antiques in Otley, conducted the auction and musical entertainment was offered by Sally’s Army, in fine voice for the occasion. A total of over £1,200 was raised. Jenny and Christine summed up the event’s success by paying tribute to all the participants. “Over 90 people joined the party for a really fun afternoon of sun, singing, drinks and cakes," they said. "We thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event: the hosts and the generous prize donors, the guests and supporters and Sally’s Army, singing in the sunshine.”

If you too would like to show support for Jenny and Christine’s venture – and the work of the Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice – you can donate online. This is Manorlands’ preferred method, and all funds will go to their site in Oxenhope. The address is justgiving.com/fundraising/gardenparty65