A pub landlord has stubbed out smoking to raise funds for CCTV cameras at a theft-hit hospice.

Barry Shaw, of the Fleece, Cullingworth, has kicked the habit to coin in cash through sponsorship.

And within hours of starting his fag-free foray on Tuesday, generous customers had donated over £60.

Barry, 55, launched his effort after reading in the Keighley News about the theft of around £100 from a collection bottle in the Manorlands reception area.

"I just could not believe that anyone could do that -- it's disgusting," said Barry. "One of our customers, Diane, who does a lot of great work at the hospice, told me it had happened before. It is quite staggering. I wanted to do something to help and spoke to the home about installing CCTV in the entrance area. Wilsden Security Specialists is prepared to do something at cost price and I am determined to raise the necessary funds, which could be up to about £1,000."

The Fleece, where Barry is licensee with Glynis Jones, is a strong supporter of the Oxenhope Sue Ryder Care Centre. A charity day at the pub on Easter Monday raised more than £1,700 and an auction night is planned on May 31.

Barry, who has been a smoker for 40 years, getting through up to 60 cigs a day, this week was sucking throat sweets in a bid to stave off any cravings.

He said: "I have tried lots of times before to give up -- using everything from hypnosis to acupuncture -- but without any joy. This time I am determined, it is such a good cause."

Manorlands administrator Chris Wilcock said he was delighted at the venture. "We have a fairly good alarm system but we have to look at any way in which security could be improved," he said. "Following the latest theft we had a visit from a police crime prevention officer who made various recommendations.

"CCTV would be a good deterrent and we welcome Barry's initiative. We wish him every success.

"A lot of hospices keep their doors locked all the time and have intercom systems, but we are resisting going down that road. The whole emphasis at Manorlands is on giving an open, warm and friendly welcome. We don't want to turn the place into a fortress."

Anyone wishing to sponsor Barry can contact him on 01535 272439.

l Nine staff quit smoking and take up charity cash challenge

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