The Thriller at the Villa boxing night has raised £43,000 for charity.

Organiser Chris Mooney said: ’This year saw the best Thriller in the Villa by far: after all year round preparations it finally came together on the night.

’However one thing we did not expect: I set the fundraising target at £20,000 and, just yesterday, it was confirmed that we have reached £43,000 for Hospice and Rebecca House, and it’s still coming in.

’I am speechless: it just shows how far this event has come and how, when everyone pulls together including local business, what can be done. This event is loved by all, hence the 11,000 viewers we had online.

’It’s amazing that a home grown show with local people and business support can become the island’s second biggest event.

’This is the fourth year the show has been run, putting on more than 60 fights with no one getting seriously hurt.

’This year the Chief Minister was one of the judges and more than 50 volunteers helped the event to run smoothly.

Chris added: ’We would like to thank the main sponsor, Adamson Middleton; team Douglas sponsor IM1 car centre and team Ramsey sponsor Task UK, and also Hospice for being alongside us during all the hard work getting it ready. I’d also like to say how hard each boxer worked, and the teams: a massive thank you to team Ramsey, raising more than £14,000, and a massive massive well done to team Douglas, who set the new record and blew everyone away by raising more than £21,000.

One fighter, Lyndsey Leece, worked so hard, she actually raised more than £5,000 on her own.

’It’s all local people that have done it and the money stays here.’

The majority of the money raised will go to Hospice and Rebecca House, with Manx ABC boxing club and Ramsey Fitness each receiving a donation of £1500 donation.

Chris added: ’We would also like to thank the Villa Marina and can’t wait to go again next year and see if we can do the same again.’