On behalf of everyone at St Peter and St James hospice I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the individuals, clubs, businesses, schools, churches and trusts that have supported our fundraising efforts in the past 12 months.

I also wish to express my thanks to all the staff and volunteers who play such a vital role at the hospice. Without them we could not continue.

They should all feel proud and know that they really are making a difference.

With our Raise The Roof appeal well under way we look forward to improving our facilities in 2008 to ensure that we are providing the best possible care, not only for our patients but also for their loved ones.

My thanks go to everyone who bought one or more bricks for Christmas to support the campaign. It is still not too late to donate. Please keep an eye out for news of developments and for our future appeals.

Looking forward to 2008 our fundraising task is greater than ever. With only 15 per cent of our funding coming from government we have to raise £3,300 every day of the year just to maintain our services.

We are continually looking for new sources of income and hope that once again we will be able to call on the support of our local community to help us in our vital task.

With my thanks and best wishes for the new year.

  • Colin Burgess, chief executive, St Peter and St James Hospice and Continuing Care Centre, North Chailey