Businesses toasted success when they took over a pub to showcase everything Horwich has to offer ­— as well as raising money for charity.

The Horwich Showcase took place in The Bridge Hotel where more than £1,270 was raised for the work of women's refuge and outreach service, Fortalice.

The Horwich Showcase all started three years ago when local woman Donna Powell decided to run a raffle for the charity, mainly through social media.

Family, friends and Horwich businesses helped with donations of items and the event – held in Donna’s front-room – brought a welcome donation for the charity.

This year, when Donna approached The Bridge Hotel to use a room there for it, the manager Danny Fishwick suggested she take over the whole pub.

Donna approached as many Horwich businesses and groups as possible about taking part, each providing a raffle prize.

READ MORE: Horwich town centre business urge residents to shop local

'There are so many independent shops, they deserve to be promoted'

'You don’t get this interaction at a zoo': I visited Bolton’s alpaca centre

The result was a hugely successful event with a bumper raffle, stalls of all kinds, free games for children and a visit from the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan, and the Mayoress Karen Houldsworth, as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Horwich, Mr and Mrs Ian Aldcroft

A delighted Donna was even more pleased to learn that Lloyds Bank will also match the funds raised by £1,000 and Barclays by £1000 as each had staff members assisting with the event, making a tremendous total of just over £3000.

Local businesses were pleased to have the opportunity to reach a wider audience.

Angela Stevens who owns and runs Ruby Rose Clothing Boutique commented: “It gave me back my confidence chatting to people who believe in Horwich.”

Kath Parbery the owner of Meltsbyserendipity added: “A brilliant event, not only raising awareness of businesses available in Horwich but also raising much needed funds for an amazing charity. A great night all round!”

And Mel Andrews from Sentiments concluded: “It was a great way to showcase local businesses in Horwich and raising money for charity is always a bonus.”

Now Donna is busy making plans for next year’s Horwich Showcase – and trying to top this year’s success.