HUNDREDS of people flooded into the GER Sports Club on Saturday to help an emotional March man raise more than �3,000 for the hospital ward that treated him for breast cancer.

Mark Cross, 42, was overjoyed to see the Fenland public turn out in force for his charity darts tournament, which also received the backing of professional sportsmen through a series of generous donations.

A special auction raised �750, with a signed darts shirt belonging to professional player Peter Manley going for �100 and a rugby ball and shirt signed by the Leicester Tigers fetching �200.

Mr Cross, who had his left breast removed after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, said: “It was standing room only because the club was so full. When I first discussed how much I thought I could raise I guessed at between �500-�700. How wrong can you be?

“I was close to tears on several occasions and people saw that. When they started totting up the money it just hit me.

“It was an absolutely amazing day with so many people supporting a local cause. There were so many stories of people that have been affected by cancer either losing loved ones or knowing someone that is currently undergoing treatment.

“Thank you does not seem to say enough to all that contributed to such a phenomenal day.”

More than 80 players took part in darts competitions including cricket triples, blind draw pairs and singles. A total of �3,200 was raised for the Oncology Department at Peterborough City Hospital.

Nigel Goude took the singles crown, while James Wilmott pipped 10-year-old Luke Mason to the juniors’ title. Bob Albiston and Peter Barnes won the doubles challenge and Terry Redhead, Paul Doncaster and Mark Cross triumphed in the cricket triples.

Bouquets of flowers were presented to Lorraine Barnes, Ann Cross, Kim Cross and Jackie Healey, who collected dozens of prizes from the generous residents of Elliot Lodge, in March.