A big-hearted fundraiser who has brought in almost £110,000 in memory of his late wife is lost for words.

Billy Birch, whose efforts are already marked by a blue plaque on Ellesmere Port’s Civic Hall , travelled to the Cheshire Police headquarters in Winsford to introduce himself to new chief constable Simon Byrne as part of his fund raising activities.

What he did not expect was a certificate of appreciation signed by both the chief constable and Cheshire’s police and crime commissioner John Dwyer.

The certificate recognises Billy’s contribution to charitable organisations with the community ‘with thanks from the Chief Constable and his colleagues of Cheshire Constabulary’.

Asked about the visit, a police spokesman said: “ Billy had asked to meet the Chief, as he has met all our recent Chief Constables in the course of his fundraising activities.

“The Chief was happy to oblige as he is aware of Billy’s great work in the community and the significant amount he has raised for charity over the years.”

Billy, who also received a crystal paperweight, has raised £107,444 to date.

He said he was ‘really touched’ and ‘lost for words’.

“I would like to thank them for their very kind gesture,’ he said.

Billy always makes a point of thanking people and companies in the town for their support and publicising the projects which have benefited from their donations.

Most recently these have included the Deafness Support Network.