A Dorchester couple have been 'overwhelmed' by generous donations by the public.

Andrew and Denise Jones organised a charity race night in the county town earlier this month, raising more than £2,000.

Last year Denise was sadly diagnosed with a brain aneurysm and the couple wanted to give something back following her outstanding care at Southampton Hospital.

Denise underwent major brain surgery last year to have a cerebral aneurysm clipped and both Andrew and herself wanted to raise awareness of her condition and wanted celebrate the care and support of the NHS.

The couple also decided to split the proceeds with the Mayor of Dorchester's chosen charities.

Andrew said: "We have been overwhelmed with the kindness shown by friends, family, clients and strangers, and support financially and practically from so many people

"A lady saw the article in the Echo and phoned us up. She had a brain haemorrhage ten years ago and was treated in Southampton Hospital, and was also treated so well at the time that she sent us a cheque donation in the post.

"People have been very moved by the story, and wanted to say thank you for what the NHS does for us."

The couple raised a total of £2,530, with £1,265 being donated to Southampton Hospital and the same to the Mayor's charities.

Taking about his wife, Andrew said it was a "very traumatic time".

He said: "But the care she received at Southampton Hospital was fantastic.

"The funds will be going towards the neurology department at Southampton Hospital. The staff there really went above and beyond for her and we can't thank them enough.

"We thought it would be great to host it in Dorchester and the mayor kindly arranged it for us to be able to use the Town Hall.

"My wife still suffers with some of the after effects but the staff said it will take time. The body does take time to get back to normal.

"We are just taking one day at a time.

Andrew added: "We are extremely grateful to our good friends Gina Wakely, and Andy and Judy Davies, without whose tireless efforts and creative energy the event would not have happened."