A BEREAVED widower hosted a fundraising quiz in memory of his wife.

Chris Pearcey lost his wife, Rita, to a brain tumour.

Following her death, Mr Pearcey wanted to help raise funds for Brain Tumour Research and awareness of the disease.

200 people made up of 35 teams attended the fundraising quiz at Earls Colne Village Hall earlier this month.

£5,100 was raised for Brain Tumor Research through the quiz and other activities during the evening, including an auction and a raffle.

Mr Pearcey said: “I very much enjoyed my part in organising the fundraiser and was grateful to everyone who came along and showed their support on the night.

“But the biggest thank you must go to my friend Terry Beart, who has organised many charitable events over the years, his wife Paddy and the rest of his small team for picking up on my idea and running the event.

“Rita and I both enjoyed volunteering at our small village hall arranging charitable or fundraising events and Rita was the driving force of our popular Stationmasters Arms Pub Nights in White Colne- she would often be seen behind the bar serving pints.

“She was a very popular member of our small community.”

Rita was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, a particularly aggressive type of brain tumour , in 2016, and after suffering problems with her vision, she passed away 16 months later.

Mr Piercey added: “I was shocked at how quickly her illness initially progressed.

“It opened my eyes as to how devastating a brain tumour can be for the patient and their families and I am determined to help raise money and awareness for this vital cause”

Tim Green, senior community fundraising manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “We are extremely grateful for the support of Chris and thank him for organising such a great event.

“Less than 20% of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years compared with an average of 50% across all cancers.

“We cannot allow this situation to continue.”