Staff at Independence Matters Community Hub in Great Yarmouth have been raising funds for Jo's Last Wish, an appeal to help send two bereaved boys to America to live with their aunt.

Independence Matters provided care for the boy's mum Jo Lynch, who died in July last year aged 29, putting the appeal close to their hearts.

Knowing just how much Jo wanted Kallum and Jack to start a new life in Los Angeles made them determined to raise as much money as possible for the fund.

The Hub on Suffolk Road, which supports people with learning difficulties and dementia, hosted a fundraising day for staff and customers which included a performance by the drama group, raffle, auction of gifts and sponsored balloon release.

With additional donations from friends of the hub, the event raised £1079.59 which was matched by Independence Matters to make a final total of £2159.18.

A cheque was formally presented to the appeal's co-ordinator, Linda Dickeson, at Edward Worlledge Primary School by Independence Matters service manager, Anna Bowyer who said: 'We are delighted to be able to support Jo's wish in helping secure her boys' future and, thanks to the generosity of our managing director Sarah Stock, have been able to double the amount raised by staff which is just brilliant.'