A HOCKEY tournament staged in memory of a Silsden woman raised more than £2,500 for the hospice which cared for her.

The Forever Fest was held in tribute to Nicky Benedikz, who died in December, aged 42.

Ten teams took part in the tournament, organised by Nicky’s husband Will and her best friend Ellen Vanlint.

There was also a raffle and an auction.

Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands has received £2,515 – half the proceeds – whilst the remainder has gone to Beating Bowel Cancer UK.

The event took place in Norfolk, Nicky’s home county.

But a contingent travelled from Ben Rhydding, where Nicky had become an integral part of the hockey club.

Ellen said the extravaganza, held over two days at Cromer, was a huge success, with some camping over at the playing fields.

“It was a seven-a-side mixed tournament which as well as attracting the ten teams also saw tons of supporters come along,” she said.

“In addition to those from Ben Rhydding there was a good turnout from Nicky’s club of many years, North Norfolk.

“Despite the weather being against us, everyone got stuck in, in what can only be described as true Nicky grit and style. The money raised is being split 50/50 between Beating Bowel Cancer UK and Manorlands, which cared for Nicky so well towards the end. Forever Fest will be back next year, and I am so delighted and proud that we now have this sporting legacy for her.”

Next year’s event will be hosted by Ben Rhydding Hockey Club.

Tribute is paid to the organisers by Ryan Judson, a community fundraising officer at Manorlands.

He said: “Ellen and Will have done an incredible job with Forever Fest, creating a fantastic event that is a wonderful and unique tribute to Nicky.

“The event raised a fantastic amount that will make a huge difference for the hospice, helping us continue to care for patients and their loved ones, both at the hospice itself and in their own homes.”

Manorlands supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families at the hospice and in the community, across an area covering Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale as well as parts of Bradford.

All services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs £9,000 a day to keep the hospice doors open.

For details on how to support the hospice, visit sueryder.org/manorlands.