AS THE Big Push gets under way to create Winchester Hospice, people and businesses across the area are being urged to lend their support to the fundraising campaign.

Work has begun to convert the historic Burrell House building at Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester into a hospice which will act as a hub for specialist palliative care.

But a further £500,000 still needs to be raised to cover the cost of the entire build.

Dr Lara Alloway, chief medical officer and palliative care consultant at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It’s already shaping up to be a fantastic year, which is all down to the inspiring dedication of our brilliant fundraisers, who have already raised £3.2 million.

“We are so excited to see work begin, but we still have a way to go to raise the full amount needed to be able to complete the work to transform Burrell House into a much-needed hospice for Winchester.

“This month, we are launching our Big Push fundraising campaign, encouraging members of the local community to get behind us and help us to achieve the last 20 per cent of funding we need, based on current construction costs.”

The work will see the hospice provide inpatient care for up to ten patients at a time, as well as a host of outpatient and community services.

It will also be able to provide patients and their loved ones a chance to reflect and spend time together in a special garden, donated by Bible Society.

Designed by multi award-winner Sarah Eberle, the garden will first be displayed at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

To find out more visit the website www.winchesterhospice.com