AN Apprentice-style Barnsley Hospice fundraiser saw local businesses turn an ‘investment’ into a five-figure funding pot.( Barnsley Hospice’s ‘accumulator’ fundraising event saw 20 local businesses collectively raise more than £17,000 throughout March.

Each year, corporate partnership manager at the hospice, Simon Atkinson, adopts the alias of ‘Lord Sweetener’ - and recruits local businesses to turn a £30 ‘loan’ into as much money as possible throughout March.

Businesses got stuck in, hosting bake sales, fancy dress, colour runs, Mario Kart racing and many more inventive fundraising ideas.

Simon said: “Yet again after another year of wonderful and whacky fundraising, our accumulator challenge has gone from strength to strength.

“We’ve seen so many creative and generous businesses take part.

“The challenge is all about being as creative and inventive as possible and, most importantly, having fun whilst at work or with their friends and family.”( Participants celebrated their achievements at a special awards ceremony at Barnsley Hospice, where the grand total of £17,304.62 was unveiled.

Simon added: “Everybody who took part was a winner and we are so grateful everybody worked hard to raise as much money for the palliative and end of life services we provide.

“Thank you to everybody from the bottom of our hearts.”