A pub landlord from the Fens has organised a casino night with the aim of raising £3,000 for an "indispensable" charity that's close to her heart.

Tina Leonard, who runs The Three Tuns in Doddington with her husband Rob and recently completed a charity skydive, is organising the event on November 8 for Marie Curie.

"My mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer in March 2014, after suffering from lung cancer in 2013," she said. 

"We contacted Marie Curie for help in July 2014; at this time, we as a family were caring for mum 24/7 and this meant sleeping on the sofa to keep an eye on her during the night. 

"As well as caring for mum we were also trying to carry on with all the normal stuff like working, caring for the rest of the family, daily chores and obviously the cooking. 

"Marie Curie were the only charity that would offer us support and, even better, hands-on support.

"They offered to stay with mum overnight so we could sleep in our own bed for the night. Seems a little treat but it made a huge difference to us as a family. 

"On the second occasion of the wonderful Donna staying with mum overnight, mum told us all how she loved us and how proud she was as we left to sleep in our own beds again. 

"6am the next morning I received the call from Donna that mum had gone. 

"I ran, with tears rolling down my face, but I was already too late. But the comfort in knowing she was not alone is immense. 

"We will forever be grateful to them for allowing us to be a family rather than carers for a short time," she added.

"And for being with mum at the very end of her life."

Talking about the upcoming casino night, she said "it's a unique, sophisticated event designed to bring the community together and have fun while raising funds and awareness for the valuable work done by Marie Curie". 

She added that it's also "an excellent opportunity for local businesses to associate themselves with a worthwhile cause and promote their company as an official sponsor/donor of this event," Tina added. 

"We are extremely grateful for the businesses that have come forward and sponsored the casino tables. 

"A huge thank you goes to Linwood Crops Ltd, Fields End Water, Tessa's Hair Design, Positive Steps, E. Mason & Son, Daniel Lawrence Heating, Plumbing & Electrical, and Bowls Bi-Us/Darts Bi-Us. 

"We've also got JC's Mobile Disco providing music for free all night and helping with the raffle and auction. 

"Decor inside is being done by The Balloon Lady free of charge and a beautiful balloon display near our main door by Julie at Jualz Gifts Galore. 

"Any further sponsors will be used to purchase prizes for both the raffle and the auction."

Tina added that she is currently in need of prizes for the night: "We are struggling on that front at the moment so if you can spare anything, that would be hugely appreciated. 

"For the auction, we are looking for items that will get the interest of our audience, something that might attract some good offers for the charity. 

"We already have a signed Nigel Benn framed programme and a meat hamper to auction off.

"If you can offer anything - whether it's an afternoon tea, signed memorabilia, photography vouchers or garden services - then please do get in touch with us on 01354 279593 or email me at thethreetuns@email.com."

(Image: Tina Leonard)