The extension at St Clare's Hospice has contributed to a new beginning for the organisation at Heybridge.

The official opening of the extension linked in with the signing of a new agreement with Farleigh Hospice, Chelmsford, which means a complete palliative care service can be provided by St Clare's.

"For the past five years the two hospices have operated in these parts with two lots of fund-raising," said the chairman of St Clare's Hospice, Chris Thorby.

He added: "Although we have worked together very well there has been a growing realisation that there is a need for a more integrated plan to provide the people of this area with the care they need."

To help provide the new care and extra fund-raising which will be needed, St Clare's has extended its premises to include counselling facilities, new reception area and fund-raising office.

It will need to raise around £130,000 a year to pay for the extra responsibilities compared to about £75,000 previously.

Richard Fewings will be working with fund-raising director, Sholto Morton, to raise the profile of St Clare's and attract corporate as well as community fund-raising support.

The patron of St Clare's Hospice, Lady Alison Wakeham praised supporters at the official relaunch on Friday.

"Without all of you this wonderful organisation would not be here. Please continue to support us," she said.

Lady Wakeham also praised the efforts of administrator, Bertha Burgess, who was given a thank you presentation.

Lady Wakeham said she was ''a star'' working behind the scenes.

Anyone who would like to help with fund-raising efforts or who would like more information about St Clare's should contact the hospice on 01621 857727.

From left, Chris Thorby, St Clare's chairman, patron, Lady Wakeham and David Frost, chairman of Farleigh sign the new agreement.

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