The Co-op's popular pick-up-a-penny scheme netted the money.

Each time a customer hands in a till receipt at the society's food stores in South Wootton and Wisbech, a penny is donated by the company to charity.

Mrs Chris McConnell, store manager designate of the Co-op in South Wootton, gave the money to hospice fundraising manager Robert Cartwright in a presentation outside the store in Langley Road.

The hospice provides care to people with cancer, neurological and other life-limiting conditions and the money will help fund therapies to relieve patients' stress, worry and improve their well-being.

Mr Cartwright said: "We are extremely grateful for all the wonderful support we are receiving from the Co-op stores in the community we serve.

"Without this kind of local support the hospice simply could not continue providing the vital care that helps so many patients, families and carers throughout Norfolk and the Fens."