WHEN a fund-raising wishing well was stolen from Bolton DIY in Bentinck Street the firm's boss knew exactly how to get another one. He did it himself.

And now Bolton Hospice is benefiting once more from generous customers who have thrown loose change - from pennies to pounds - into the well.

Vital income

The firm was already a long-time supporter of the Hospice, holding an annual gala day and passing on hundreds of pounds amassed from the the wishing at the premises.

But then, one day earlier this summer, penny-pinching thieves walked off with the well and contents, robbing the Hospice of some of its vital income.

"I've been looking around garden centres since, trying to find another well that would be suitable," explained the store's managing director Mike Tatchell. "But then I thought 'I can do better than that - I'll make one myself'."

Mike set to work armed with all the necessary wood to make a three-foot well. "I thought it would only take a day or two. In the end it took me four days but, yes, I'm pleased with the result," he said.

"And we're delighted," added Bolton Hospice fund-raising director Bernard Rhead.

"We're very grateful to Bolton DIY and their customers for their continued support."

Mike Tatchell paid tribute to his customers: "They are always glad to give when they see that the Hospice will benefit because so many people have had relatives or friends cared for there."

And a final word from Bernard:"We wished for another well .... and there it was!"

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