MORE than £2,000 has been raised towards a Bradford hospitals charity Christmas appeal by two community groups.

The Indian Women’s Community UK (IWCUK) and the Bradford Hindu Council started a fundraising project for children and teenagers who will be stuck in hospital during Christmas.

The two groups were originally aiming for around £800 towards Bradford Hospitals' Charity's 'Sparkle for Axl' appeal.

The fund is providing additional specialist toys and games for children and young people - as well as the work Bradford Hospitals’ Charity does in supporting children in hospital and both running the Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospitals, the children’s ward at both these institutes and the NHS as a whole.

Ravinder Dharni, who organised the two group’s fundraising efforts, said: “We were so overwhelmed that our members, well wishers, community spirit, friends and families have been so inspirational that we managed to raise a whopping £2,100 for this brilliant fund and £525 gift aid.

“We can't thank you enough for all your wonderful support and kind donations.

“We're absolutely thrilled from the support from the IWCUK & Hindu Community again supporting children in hospital, especially at this time of the year when children are on holiday from school with their loved ones.”