A WIDOWER, who has raised more than £40,000 for charity — in memory of his wife — is hosting his tenth event.

Oliver Keenan, aged 70, hosts a golf day each year to raise money for Bolton and District Multiple Sclerosis Society.

His wife Winefride died at the age of 66, in 2011 — nearly 30 years after she was first diagnosed with MS — a neurological disease which attacks the nervous system.

Mr Keenan, who lives in Daisy Hall Drive in Westhoughton, has been hosting the event for 10 years and has so far raised £42,500 for the cause.

He said: "There are a lot of people suffering quietly with MS. It is not one of these illnesses that get a high profile and research is slow to find a remedy for it.

"But there is a lot of good work in Bolton in aid of MS and other charities that needs to be highlighted."

The MS Society funds research and provides information and support to MS sufferers and their carers.

To help the cause, a golf day will be held at Hart Common Club — donated for use by Peter Roberts— in Wigan Road, in Westhoughton, on June 14.

More than 50 people have already signed up to take part in the event, which will start at 8am and run throughout the day with trophies given to first, second and third place and best pairs.

The golf competition, which is open to all players, will be followed by a meal and raffle, with prizes from Rymans and four rounds of golf from Marriot Golf Club up for grabs, among other gifts.

Former headteacher Mr Keenan added: "People are very generous and it is a great day for a good cause.

"It would be good to see some new blood in the game, and usually more than 100 people take part.

"I hope that we can raise another £5,000 this year."

The golf day is £35 and holes can be sponsored for £20.

To request a form to take part in the event contact Oliver Keenan on: 01942 815989 or email o.v.keenan@gmail.com