LEGAL firms from across Wiltshire have raised over £42,000 for the Forever Friends Appeal, the fundraising charity of the Royal United Hospital in Bath.

Fifteen firms raised the money by waiving their will writing fees during the annual RUH Will Month fundraising scheme, which allowed the public to have a will drawn up professionally at a reduced cost.

Jan Witt, in memory and legacy officer at The Forever Friends Appeal said: "This is the biggest amount raised so far since the fundraising scheme was launched 3 years ago and we are very appreciative of the generous support given to us by the solicitors who work extremely hard to help as many people as possible to draw up thousands of Wills last year.

"RUH Will Month has been running for three years and it has proved to be very valuable to the Appeal. Not only does it raise significant funds towards the work we do helping to fund projects and equipment for all areas across the hospital, but also provides a yearly reminder to the public, to focus on getting their affairs in order to ensure their savings and possessions go to the people they love and care for."

Amongst the solicitor firms involved were Wiltshire based Forrester Sylvester Mackett, who have been on board with the fundraising scheme for the last two years.

Mike Cavalla, partner solicitor at Forrester Sylvester Mackett Solicitors, said: "We pride ourselves on being a Wiltshire firm and the RUH provides care for all of our towns in which we and our clients are based, so we are very happy to be associated and support its charity, The Forever Friends Appeal through this important scheme."