What started out as a work-based fundraising drive has spiralled into a thousand-pound feat for one Co-op staff member.

Martin Hearnden, who works at the Birchington branch at 54-56 Station Road, was asked to organise a small collection project, and in turn chose to raise money to pay for a Christmas meal out for residents of a nursing home.

But following an outpouring of support from customers and the community, the 31-year-old decided to aim higher and collect enough money to fund meals for a further two homes.

With a raffle featuring about 50 prizes - including a bottle of scotch donated by MP Sir Roger Gale - almost £1,000 has been donated.

Highfield residential home in Birchington, and Maylands, a Whitstable care home, tucked into festive dinners this week at Zara’s in Birchington thanks to the fundraiser.

One home, however, had to pull out last minute so father-of-one Mr Hearnden found himself with cash left over.

“My wife and I are expecting a baby, and we noticed that the maternity day care unit at QEQM Hospital lacked festive decoration,” he said.

“So I decided to use some of the money to make the area look more Christmassy.

“The rest I am using to fund and deliver presents to all of the children on the Rainbow Ward on Christmas Eve.”

Mr Hearnden, who lives in Herne Bay, added: “I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone.

“The community spirit has been amazing and I could not have done this without all of the great raffle prizes people and businesses donated.

“I’d especially like to thank Liz and Patsy at Zara’s Cafe, who have been so flexible and amazing at accommodating the plans.”