Operation Hoodie aims to raise cash for Cancer Research UK by holding and supporting a variety of events as well as selling trademark hooded tops.

The campaign’s chairman, 22-year-old James Clegg, from Pontefract, led the launch at Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield, in memory of his close friend Lee Doughty who died of cancer when he was 24.

The launch was a real success and two auctions raised £2,800 for the charity. Entertainment was provided by Wakefield-based Momentum Dance group and Leeds band The Bribes.

Mr Clegg said: “It was a real team effort and it’s the first time we’ve ever done anything like this.

“What meant a lot was Lee’s mum came up to me afterwards and said we should do it all again next year – that was a real boost.

“I was just happy to get through without any real glitches, but everybody kept saying how much of a good night they had. Willie was a top guy, really honest and down to earth.”

Mr Thorne said: “It was a great evening and we raised a lot of money for a very worthy cause. There should be one of these events every year so let’s make it an annual thing.”

Mr Clegg is also a Make Your Mark ambassador and works to highlight the importance of young people working towards achieving their dream careers.

For more information, log on to www.operationhoodie.co.uk.