THIS year a determined fundraiser is hoping to raise £1,000 for every year of his life to celebrate his 80th birthday.

Mike Pullin, from Dinedor, wants to raise £80,000 by the end of 2016 for St Michael's Hospice in celebration of his birthday on October 1.

He started fundraising at his 60th birthday party in 1996 and chose to give the money to St Michael's.

He then became a committed supporter and formed the Golden Valley Flyers team who raised more than £6,000 in sponsorship by completing static line parachute jumps.

In 2003 he launched the Hospice Angels and by the end of last year had raised £300,000.

Mr Pullin said: "During the past 20 years I have sat at the bedside of some close friends and I have witnessed hospice nurses care for them with the most remarkable compassion.

"Because of their dedication and hard work, my friends have died in comfort and with dignity."

Last year the Hospice Angels raised £50,000 and Mr Pullin has already started raising money for his new target, including planning an 80th fundraising birthday bash.

Mr Pullin was awarded the British Empire Medal in 2012 and is regularly amazed by the generosity of Herefordshire people.

He said: "On several occasions, I have had people stop me in the street to donate. I couldn't do what I do without the support of some remarkable people."

If you would like to help Mr Pullin or are interested in joining the Hospice Angels, call 07454 155411.