AN EIGHTY-year-old man gave up more than just a minute for our appeal for Springhill Hospice.

When it came to celebrating his big day, which he did with friends and family at Rochdale Football Club’s Ratcliffe Arms, Jimmy Hernon asked for donations to the hospice rather than gifts for himself.

Mr Hernon, of Beswick Royds Street, said: “I’ve had enough presents.”

His generosity resulted in £1,062 for the Can You Spare A Minute? appeal.

One extra special present he did receive, however, was a surprise visit from son Chris who came all the way from New Zealand to say happy birthday in person. They had last met 10 years ago.

Mr Hernon said: “That was a big surprise, I wasn’t expecting to see him until June, when he’s coming over with his family for my daughter’s wedding.”

As well as providing a big birthday boost for our appeal for Springhill, family friend Bob Hamill received the proceeds of a bucket collection for the Anne Hamill charity. This, too, goes to the hospice.