Medway's biggest social landlord has smashed its fund-raising target for Macmillan Cancer Support.

mhs decided to support the charity which is trying to raise £1 million towards a new cancer care unit at Medway Maritime Hospital.

Staff pledged to raise £50,000 by the end of this year, but have already exceeded expectations.

A recent black tie and tiara ball added £7,000 and helped pass the £50,000 target by £3,000.

The ball, held at the Corn Exchange, Rochester, included an auction. Lots included a day out on a Kent Police skid-pan, an oil painting by a mhs homes resident and a huge giant teddy.

Lance Ridden and colleagues of Vokes Taxis were determined to become the new owner of the giant teddy, which is pictured here with its new owners, Lance’s sons eight-week-old Henry and two-year-old Lewis. Lance bid £130 for the bear, which was transported home immediately in the front seat of one of Vokes’ cars.

The new unit at Medway Maritime Hospital will be a much needed local facility to help people fight against cancer.”

Gillingham Paul Clark MP, who was also there, added: “The evening was not only an enjoyable event but was for a good cause for our community.”

Madeline Chainey, who organised the ball, added: “The ball raised just under £7,000 for our chosen charity which has smashed our target of £50,000.

“The total now stands at £53,000 and will go towards the cancer care unit which is being built.”

A spokesman for Macmillan added: “mhs homes have been truly inspirational with their fund-raising for the new Macmillan Cancer Care Unit.

“We are thrilled with how their residents, staff, clients, suppliers, families, friends and management have all got behind the campaign. Macmillan is very thankful for all their hard work and commitment to making the new unit a reality.

“We still have a way to go towards achieving our fun-raising target so remember, whoever you are, whatever you do, we can all help to raise money.