A GENEROUS Kidderminster pensioner has handed more than £800 to needy Wyre Forest charities after asking for donations for his birthday instead of presents.

Dan Jeavons, of the Foxholes, who was 80 on Sunday, January 27, asked friends and family to give money to Kemp Hospice, Kidderminster Hospital’s Millbrook Suite and Midlands Air Ambulance instead of buying gifts.

He has sent £280 each to Kemp and the hospital and £250 to the air ambulance after hosting birthday parties at Menzies Stourport Manor Hotel and the town’s Elizabeth Mills Centre.

“The simple question is at 80 what can you buy me?”

he said. “We are fairly comfortable and do not really want anything so I suggested if people want to give, let them give to charity.

“We chose three charities involved in Kidderminster and they can spend it on whatever they want – they are all deserving causes.”

Mrs Jeavons added: “It has been out of this world – we did not expect to raise this much. Friends and family all thought it was a good idea and everybody has put their hands in their pockets.”

Jason Levy, of Midlands Air Ambulance, said: “Mr Jeavons’ donation will go directly to funding air rescues and ultimately could save a life.”

Kidderminster Hospitals League of Friends trustee, Mike Shellie, said he had been “touched” by the “selfless gesture”. He added: “There are always things going on in the Millbrook Suite that are needed and this will help with that.”

Kemp fund-raiser Ele Millward added: “We are so grateful to the family for thinking of us and it is very kind and generous to ask for donations rather than gifts.

This will help us continue with the care we provide people in Wyre Forest.”