Fundraising for Airedale Hospital’s maternity appeal has achieved double the initial target in just 12 months.

The appeal, which was launched by Calendar Girl Tricia Stewart on Mother’s Day 2013, aimed to raise £6,000.

But thanks to the generosity of local people it has topped £12,000.

Tricia said: “It’s great to see such support for the appeal, having had both my children at Airedale over 30 years ago. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed supporting the appeal over the past 12 months.”

The latest donation comes from Bingley Women’s Institute members, who knitted and crocheted dozens of woollen squares and sewed them together to create baby blankets.

WI president Jag Picknett said: “We’re continuing to make blankets for the hospital and if anyone would like to help, they can donate 10x10 knitted squares. These can be dropped off at the Little Yorkshire Gift Shop, in Bingley.”

Claire Matthews, head of midwifery at Airedale, said: “The support we’ve had has been overwhelming.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped us exceed our target. The money raised has helped us to furnish our bereavement suite and family room to make them more comfortable and homely.”

The appeal has had backing from businesses, including Whitakers of Skipton.