Oldham pub raises almost £10k after devastating diagnosis

Lowerhouse Inn Pub and Function Room on Derker Street is passionate about the community it serves, often fundraising for residents struggling with the cost of living.

The popular premises, run by Daniel Whitehead, received an Admiral Taverns 'certificate of recognition' last year for "serving excellent quality beer by keeping high standards in the cellar" and was nominated 'best community pub' in the Great British Pub awards.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox by signing up to The Oldham Times’ morning and evening newsletters as well as our breaking news alerts 

Jen's family and friends shaved their heads to raise money for the charity (Image: Lowerhouse Inn Pub & Function)

Now, the pub is celebrating having hosted a successful fundraising day on behalf of their customer and close friend, Jennifer Wild, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour and cancer in February this year. 

Daniel said the pub kickstarted the day, which was held over the August bank holiday weekend, with a 'brave the shave' event.

Jen's mum, aunty and Lisa, one of the pub's bar staff, shaved their head on the premises and raised around £1,000 each into the fundraising pot.

The team presented Maggie's with their cheque (Image: Lowerhouse Inn Pub & Function)

The pub then had a food stall outside where everything cost just £3 and "every penny" was donated towards the cause.

Inside the pub, there was a tombola, raffle, an auction and a game of 'Play your Cards Right'.

Prizes for the games were donated by customers and included expensive items such as a large TV and football memorabilia including signed shirts, paintings and posters.

There were lots of generous prizes up for grabs (Image: Lowerhouse Inn Pub & Function)

Daniel has now revealed the jam-packed day raised an impressive £9,213.90 for Maggie's Oldham.

Daniel added: "It took us some time to gather all the generous donations and arrange for a representative from Maggie’s Oldham to attend with the big cheque.

"Thanks to the incredible generosity of our amazing locals, regulars, staff, and Jen’s family and friends, we raised a massive £9,213.90.

"It’s amazing to raise so much for a local charity that means so much to people.

"This particular charity Maggie’s, Oldham, has helped and supported our friend Jen through her journey."

Daniel issued a heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated raffle and tombola prizes as well as auction items, cash and their time to volunteer on the day, plus the help of some other nearby businesses and pubs such as Booths Garden Centre, The Black Horse, Bear on the Hill, Northgate, Lancashire Cricket Club and "all our amazing staff and customers here at the Lowerhouse". 

He added: "We couldn't have done it without every single one of you.

"Thank you."

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk