Stars of the stage and screen have written poignant verses to help cancer sufferers in Sussex.

Celebrities including comedienne Victoria Wood, the late Sir Harry Secombe and Sir Cliff Richard agreed to help following an appeal.

They penned a verse for a book of pictures which will raise cash for cancer sufferers and people with life-threatening conditions.

The late Linda McCartney even donated a photograph of her home village in East Sussex for the book, Food For Thought.

Now the text, priced at £2.50, has been officially launched by actress Mollie Sugden and is expected to sell thousands.

Other stars who wrote pieces for the book, which has a print run of 10,000, include actress Beryl Reid, former boxer Henry Cooper, novelist Barbara Cartland, TV presenter Sue Lawley, the late Sir Harry Secombe, the Duchess of Norfolk, politician Edwina Currie and Dr Miriam Stoppard.

Victoria Wood wrote: "As long as it does not snow in bed, you are all right."

Mollie Sugden's piece says: "Please God, help me to face my parting from this world. Help those who ease the pain of going."

Denis Norden is included, saying: "Make the most of what comes and the least of what goes."

Sir Cliff wrote: "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

The pieces are aimed at providing an inspiration to patients suffering life-threatening diseases.

The project was started ten years ago by stalwart volunteer Jessie Pullinger, of St Leonards, and her husband Desmond who has since died.

It was delayed because of Mrs Pullinger's ill health but revived with help from other volunteers at St Michael's Hospice in St Leonards.

The book includes photographs of Sussex landmarks including Cuckmere Haven, Lancing College at sunset, Plumpton Plain and Seven Sisters country park.

It has now been presented to the hospice and is likely to be sold through other hospices soon.

The pictures were taken by amateur snapper and poultry consultant Mike Dennett, of Plumpton Green, near Burgess Hill.

The 61-year-old said: "I think 95 per cent of the famous names that were contacted managed to write back and helped out. It was great.

"Some did verses and others just wrote something down and there are also quotes from the Bible.

"I think it will be very popular and will raise a lot of money. The celebrities have contributed some very nice pieces to the book.

Call the hospice on 01424 445177 for further details.

DANNY HARDING danny.harding@argus-btn.co.uk