KATH Porter is definitely proving that every penny counts.

The champion fundraiser has collected more than 120,000 coins over nearly a decadeand the mammoth effort means she has been able to donate in excess of £1,200 to charity, choosing Derian House Children’s Hospice, in Chorley.

Mrs Porter, aged 69, who lives in Walkden, said: “It just shows that every little really does help.

“Years ago I heard about someone else fundraising this way and I thought I could do it, so it started from there.

“It’s a really good way to raise money, it’s so easy.”

Mrs Porter has been gathering up her coppers since November, 2000, but has also had help from family and friends, and even strangers who have heard about her fundraising effort.

Lots of people have handed over their pennies to her, some even sending them to her as news of her fundraising spread through the community.

For 10 years, every time she has collected a big enough amount to donate, she has sent a cheque to Derian House, which supports terminally ill children.

She visited the hospice for the first time, to hand over her latest instalment of £70, taking her total amount she has given the charity to more than £1,200.

Mrs Porter said: “It all adds up and can make a big difference. I wanted to fundraise for the hospice because it helps sick children.

“I’m pleased with how much I’ve raised and want to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has supported me. I’ll definitely be carrying on.”

Roya Khadem, Derian House fundraising coordinator, said: “It just shows that every penny really does count.

“It’s fantastic. We rely an awful lot on donations, so things like this make a big difference.

“A big ‘thank you’ to Kath and her supporters for collecting for Derian House over the years, it means a lot to us.”