A PORT charity champ says the support he received from women following the death of his father has inspired his latest fundraising venture.

Joe Quinn was devastated when his beloved dad Edward passed away from chronic heart disease at the age of just 36.

The 23-year-old, of Rona Avenue, says the support he received from the strong women in his life has helped him through the pain.

Now, as a thank-you, Joe is organising a charity night in Greenock in aid of the British Heart Foundation and two charities which help women – Endometriosis UK and Women’s Aid.

Joe said: “Since my dad passed away, the majority of my support network has been female and I wanted to do something to recognise that.

As always I’ll raise money for the British Heart Foundation but I also want to help two women’s charities.

“Women’s Aid is a great organisation which works to end violence against women and stand up for women’s rights.

“I also chose to raise money for Endometriosis UK, a charity I found out about through a work colleague.

“Endometriosis is an illness that needs more awareness so I contacted the charity and they are delighted that I’m doing this.”

Joe says the charity night in Cruden Hall on April 7 will be a poignant occasion.

He added: “My dad would have been proud.

“His anniversary was on March 25, so the charity night is quite close.

“It will be an emotional night but also a night of celebration of everything that I have done for charity over the years.”

Joe says he’s been left humbled by the backing he has already received for the charity night. The family-friendly event will include a singer, DJ, auction/raffle, thunderball and hot buffet, while Joe is also looking for a comedian to perform on the night.

Tickets cost £10 and can be booked by emailing joseph.a.quinn@hotmail.co.uk or phoning 07967213586.