An annual charity drive that started off as a bet raised more than $20,000 for a hospice care organisation.

Gas-o-Rama, held between Terceira’s service stations and the Hamilton Lions Club, gathered donations throughout the day on February 28.

The fundraiser ended in a raffle draw and a cheque for $20,500 for Compassionate Care Partners, formerly known as Friends of Hospice.

Jennifer Mahoney, the executive director of Compassionate Care Partners, called the fundraiser “truly an extraordinary partnership” and “an unforgettable experience for our team”.

She added: “The synergies were fantastic and evident in the outcomes. The partnership and camaraderie made this effort even more meaningful.”

Gas-o-Rama was started in 1969 following a bet between the late Malcolm Terceira and Edward “Teddy” Chapman, the Lions Club president of the time.

Since then, the charity drive has raised more than $1 million for local non-profit organisations.

Ms Mahoney said the funds would support the group’s Help Us Grow campaign and the construction of the Woodland Grove Care Centre at Spice Hill, Warwick.

She added: “When complete, the Care Centre will offer a range of community services — significantly expanding and improving the care options available to individuals and families across the island.”