A charity stalwart put on a spread to thank those who helped him reach his £250,000 fundraising target.

Whistling Postman Dale Howting hosted the community celebration at the Bay Leaf Cafe in Roman Square, Sittingbourne.

It took him 37 years, but he reached the milestone eight days before his 80th birthday thanks to a cheque for £350.

It was presented to him by Andrew Cassell on behalf of his late father Gerry who founded Sittingboune’s recruitment agency the New Appointments Grip in Central Avenue, Sittingbourne.

In fact, it was the businessman who predicted six weeks before he died on July 11 at the age of 70, that Mr Howting would reach the amount in time for his big day.

Hundreds of charities have benefited from his efforts which were recognised in 1990 when he was awarded the British Empire Medal and later given the honour of carrying the Olympic Torch.