GUIDE Dogs for the Blind has received a £2,500 boost, thanks to Bolton’s annual Hospital Cup competition.

The football tournament, organised by the Bolton and District Hospital Saturday Fund, was first played in 1930 and raises money for good causes every year.

This year, Ramsbottom United and Stoneclough met in the final at the Reebok Stadium.

Around 1,000 people attended and charity collections were made throughout the game.

A cheque for £2,500 was presented to Guide Dogs for the Blind. The money will go towards a new blind dog centre in Atherton, which is due to open next summer.

The Hospital Cup competition was started 78 years ago as a way of paying for a telephone line from Burnden Park to Bolton Royal Infirmary so patients could follow Wanderers’ matches.

Trevor Nicholls, chief executive of the Hospital Saturday Fund, said: “I was delighted to help the charity raise money and I wish them luck and every success in the future.”

Pictured back, from left: Bolton Hospital Cup supporters Brian Fray, Jim Stott and Keith Whittaker. Middle: Frank Clowes and Trevor Nicholls. Front: Guide Dogs district fundraiser Charlie Collins with dog Clover.