TWO youngsters who ‘banded together’ to sell the latest must-have fashion accessory have been praised by hospice chiefs.

Eight-year-old Mae Gardner, from Helmshore, and seven-year-old Lauren Kershaw, from Barrowford, both cousins, decided to make and sell loom bands at the 50th birthday party for Mae’s dad, Paul Gardner, and his twin sister Jayne.

And their enterprise, for the Ighten Leigh Social Club bash managed to earn £200 for Pendleside Hospice.

Paul said: “It was the girls’ idea to make and sell loom bands to make some money for the hospice.

“My sister was cared for by Pendleside so it’s a place that has special meaning to my family. We’re all really happy that they raised such a good amount.”

Vikki Haydock, hospice fundraiser, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Mae and Lauren for all the effort they put into raising it for us — £200 is a lot of money.

“We’re seeing an increasing number of youngsters bringing money in for us, it’s really great!”