A CHARITY lunch organised by Bolton businessman Mark Ryan has raised £10,000 for domestic abuse charity Fortalice

Mr Ryan and his supporters created the A E Yates Ltd Charity Luncheon which was held at the Astley Bank Hotel in Darwen last week for around 90 people.

He had support from business friends and, as well as a four-course gourmet meal with wines, there was a raffle and auction with prizes including tickets and hospitality at both Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers plus signed shirts and sports’ memorabilia.

Mr Ryan paid tribute to all the sponsors involved, to compere Norman Prince, Nigel and Helen Ainscow of Astley Bank and to everyone who helped make the event a success.

Fortalice runs a local refuge which also has educational and support services and a separate support centre plus several healthy relationship courses in schools.

Gill Smallwood of Fortalice said she was absolutely delighted with the event.

She said: “It was wonderful to see such support from across the business community and we are very grateful to Mark Ryan for all his hard work.”