A KENDAL cashier took a vow of silence for a special fundraiser for a charity that supports disabled people.

Jackie Swindlehurst, who works at Morrisons in Kendal, finished her two-week sponsored silence in aid of Bendrigg Trust. 

The challenge raised more than £4,800 from cash and online donations.

The cash collected on the bucket alone was £1,756.95 and the money donated on the Just Giving Page was £290.

Both Morrisons and Bendrigg Big Give Christmas Challenge matched funding the donation.

This is the second time Ms Swindlehurst, who has been working in the shop for 23 years, keeps quiet on the check-out.

In 2021 she undertook a special fundraiser to raise money for the Rosemere Cancer Unit at Preston.

Louise Phillips, fundraising coordinator for Bendrigg Trust, said: "She was working at the check-out and Morrisons fully supported her.

"She is a very popular and sociable lady - it was a big deal for her. She has done so well - it is unbelievable how much money people gave."

Ms Phillips said that this time, she was able to raise more money. 

"There was a lot of local support from people from around the country, including London.

"Jackie said that customers kept coming back to donate more money.

"There are still bits coming in. We feel so lucky that she has done this for us."

A spokesperson for the Community Champion Kendal Morrisons said on social media: "Can we have a massive drum roll, please, for the incredible Jackie? Her total has come in at a whopping £4,803.90, including match funding, raised for Bendrigg Trust, a charity close to Jackie's heart.

"Please put your hands together. We are all very proud of you, Jackie."

Bendrigg Trust is a charity that challenges the perceptions of disabled and disadvantaged people through adventurous activities.

They aim to promote inclusion, encourage independence and build self-confidence through the safe provision of adventurous activities.