A FITNESS instructor who has raised thousands of pounds for charity is organising a new event for Saint Catherine's Hospice.

Wendy Harding, from Pickering, has regularly held blue and pink aerobic fundraisers for both breast and prostate cancer charities.

However, this year she has decided to raise funds for Saint Catherine's after seeing first hand the care staff provide for people.

"Earlier this year I visited the hospice to see two very sick friends at the end of their lives and witnesses the wonderful work that goes on there," Wendy said.

"I decided to organise a pilates and yoga fitness fundraiser and invite people to come along and take part in return for a donation."

Wendy will be joined by 85-year old Prue Stenton who still teaches yoga weekly in Pickering.

"Prue is fabulous - a real unsung hero and a wonderful example of how to grow old gracefully," she added.

"I am so grateful she has agreed to come along and help me on the day."

The fundraiser will take place on Saturday, November 1, at Pickering Memorial Hall.

After a fun warm up at 2pm Wendy teaching an hour of pilates from 2.30 -3.30pm, with Prue closing the session with yoga relaxation 3.30 -4pm.

"Everyone is welcome to come along at any point and stay for as long as they want and they will be refreshments at the end," Wendy added.

"Saint Catherine's does so much good for so many families in the area that it is important we do all we can to support such a valuable facility,"

For more information contact Wendy Harding on 01751 472098, 07979 906577 or email wendyharding@hotmail.co.uk