Phil Willis, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, reached another personal milestone this week when his personal charity fund raising reached £25,000. When elected in 1997 Phil pledged to raise £1,000 per year by donating his TV, radio and writing income to charity. In addition Phil sponsors a number of charity fund raising events in the House of Commons including this week the very generous sponsors of Harrogate Theatre.

"There are so many excellent organisations needing resources in Harrogate and Knaresborough" said Phil. "Being able to help with donations and fund raising has given me enormous satisfaction.

"I had no idea that the overall total had reached £25,000 but I hope that there will be further opportunities to add to that total before the next General Election."

Over the past twelve years organisations including Harrogate Theatre, Royal Hall Restoration, St Michael's Hospice, Horticap and Knaresborough's Frazer Theatre have all received donations.