A Braintree landlady has raised hundreds of pounds for charity after being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

Julie Maguire, of the Wagon and Horses, raised £1,700 holding a fundraiser with husband Terry, daughter Hannah and regulars at the South Street pub.

Overseeing events was special guest and ex-world darts champion Rod Harrington, who presented cheques of £700 to Theresa James, of Essex Air Ambulance, and £1,000 to Sister Pauline Wigfall, of Broomfield Hospital's B20 ward, which assists the care of Parkinson's sufferers.

The larger-than-life darts player held an exhibition for regulars, but was taught a lesson by 12-year-old Hannah, who beat him in a competition.

Mrs Maguire, 41, initially began fundraising for the Essex Air Ambulance with a bungee jump in April last year.

After she was diagnosed with Parkinson's a month later, she also decided to raise money for the ward at Broomfield as a thank you to Sister Wigfall. Mrs Maguire also praised her husband and daughter for their support.

She said: "It's taken me a year to come to terms with it. I'm coping a lot better than I was but there are times when I really struggle with it."

Other events included a raffle with lots of prizes on offer, including a cruise, signed sports books and a Steps DVD signed by Faye Tozer from the band.

Published Thursday, May 29, 2003

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