Gogglebox star steps back from fundraising

A former Gogglebox star is stepping back from fundraising after 17 years working with charities in the south west.

Marina Wingrove from Bedminster, Bristol, who was a staple of the Channel 4 reality show from 2016 to 2021, has raised more than £41,000 through coffee mornings, afternoon teas and Christmas fairs.

The 89-year-old supported organisations including Great Western Air Ambulance, Children Hospice South West, and MacMillan Cancer Support.

Ms Wingrove joked she might take up a role as consultant to friends who are still fundraising.

A resident of the St Monica Trust Retirement Village, Ms Wingrove was a hit on Gogglebox along side her best friend and fellow St Monica resident Mary Cook until Ms Cook’s death in 2021.

The pair where known for their cheeky exchanges and racy comments as they watched clips of the nation’s favourite TV programmes.

Ms Wingrove told BBC West that fundraising with her collecting tin at St Monica’s every evening at dinner was how she became friends with Ms Cook.

“Mary said she wanted to help whatever way she could,” she added.

Marina Wingrove (centre) hosted dozens of coffee mornings, quizzes and afternoon teas at the St Monica Trust Retirement Village.

Her fellow residents have been among her best supporters.

“They just love quizzes and raffles in here. Any excuse to get together and have a chat amongst themselves," she said.

“I’m very grateful to all the residents for their support. They’re very generous and they always buy a raffle ticket or donate prizes. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.

“I’m sorry to give it up, but it’s time for me to stop and have a rest now. I’ll be 90 at Christmas.”

Ms Wingrove added: “I’ll still go to the quizzes and I like my music and parties. It’s not like I can get up and dance any more, but that’s what my right hand’s for - to have a drink.

“I’ll still always be available to help if needed.”

Amanda Leonard, area fundraiser for the Children’s Hospice South West, said the charity is “truly grateful” for Ms Wingrove’s work.

“We would not be able to support over 250 families in the Bristol and Somerset area without the energy, devotion and sheer generosity of supporters just like Marina,” she said.