A BASINGSTOKE company has raised more than £1,000 for charity by organising a football tournament.

A total of 16 north Hampshire firms took part in the Merit Macmillan Charity Cup Challenge at the Down Grange sports complex, Basingstoke.

The event, organised by Wote Street-based agency Merit Recruitment, was held to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief, a charity that works to improve the quality of life for people living with cancer.

A total of £1,450 has so far been raised towards providing a lung cancer nurse and a dietician for Basingstoke hospital.

Maria Nunes, managing director of Merit Recruitment, said: "I could not have wished for a more successful event.

"I really want to thank the teams, their companies and those who donated money for their huge contributions. All the teams taking part had great fun showing off their football skills but, equally important, the money they raised was fantastic."

Paul Morgan, Macmillan Cancer Relief fundraising manager, said: "I never stop being amazed at the generosity of people.

"The enthusiasm and innovation Merit Recruitment has shown raised not only money for our fund but also awareness of what we do through a fun event."

A team from TDC Ltd won the cup, beating 3663 in the final by three goals to one.

Merit Recruitment plans to make the tournament an annual event.

For more information about the 2006 Charity Challenge Cup or to make a donation to Macmillan Cancer Relief, contact Lyn Rich on 01256 471508 or e-mail lrich@merit.eu.com

First published: Wednesday, July 20, 2005