WE think regulars at the Golden Lion on Grandstand Road deserve a drink on us.

The Hereford pub has clocked up a quarter of a century of fundraising – which began when landlady Paula Watson took over the reins.

In that 25 years, the pub has ensured more than £30,000 has been raised for St Michael’s.

To mark the milestone, Paula and Golden Lion regulars were treated to cake brought to them by Paddy Nugent, the Hospice’s Community Fundraising Manager, who thanked the group for their generosity over such a long period of time.

"Everyone was very grateful to Paddy for coming to see us," said Paula.

"I’ve been at the Golden Lion for 25 years and we’ve been collecting for St Michael’s since day one.

"I’ve just lost my friend there and I don’t think there’s anyone who comes here who has not had someone close to them, or known of someone, with some involvement with St Michael’s."

The money has been raised through a variety of methods, from quoits and a regular bingo lottery to collection tins at the bar.

"It was a real pleasure to say thank you to everyone at the Golden Lion," said Paddy.

"It’s a significant achievement to continue fundraising for a quarter of a century and the thousands of pounds they have collected has and will continue to make a real difference to families living with a terminal illness in Herefordshire and the surrounding areas."