A natty knit has helped secure £400 for Poole hospice Forest Holme in a charity knitwear knockout.

Charity shops were plundered by the photographic team of Christchurch-based design and marketing company chs creative and staff issued with a random package.

Out of 51 staff, web developer Gary Ward’s sartorial elegance gained enough votes for him to scoop third place and win prize money for his chosen charity, donated by chs.

“Forest Holme was the obvious choice for me,” he said. “There have been several cases of cancer in our family over the last few years, most have unfortunately lost that fight, one that is still battling it courageously every day.

“Last year, my aunt lost her fight at Forest Holme, where she was being cared for. It not only provided great care for her in her last year but also gave her the simple things that I know she appreciated, for instance, a beautiful view of the courtyard garden.

“Simple, yet I know this would have cheered her a little every day. With this in mind, I felt it would only be right to try and give a little something back.”

A photoshoot led to a website where friends and family could vote for the tastiest top.

“Some of the guys ended up in size 10 jumpers, while some of the girls were swamped by large men’s cardigans,” he said.

He added: “I’m really proud of the support that I received from friends, family and also all those connected to Forest Holme.

“It goes to show that with a little effort and an interesting jumper, a difference can be made.”