A BUILDING firm is helping a hospice to lay the foundations for its development plans this Christmas.

Malvern-based contractor Speller Metcalfe is offering some festive support to St Michael’s Hospice, which is currently undertaking a major expansion to its base in Hereford.

Speller Metcalfe has donated a large outdoor Christmas tree for hospice residents and their families to enjoy and is now asking members of the public to sponsor lights on the tree and raise money for the hospice.

The hospice holds a special place in the hearts of many at Speller Metcalfe, based at Enigma Business Park, as it was where much-loved project manager Bob Shenton died peacefully, aged 58, after being taken ill last year.

Steve Speller, the firm’s joint managing director, said: “This is a particularly poignant fund-raising scheme for us as we have close ties to the hospice.

“We can only extend our gratitude to the wonderfully dedicated staff and support that was offered to Bob and his family and know that these new facilities, along with any fund-raising achieved, will offer support to families in their most difficult times.”

The extension at St Michael’s Hospice will provide an additional day hospice, support and education facilities.

Mr Shenton’s widow, Ruth, has maintained a close relationship with the hospice and has also raised almost £500 herself.

“Bob had many friends and family visit him at the hospice, including Speller Metcalfe staff who very much understand the magnitude and positive impact that these newly built areas will have on the residents,” she said. “Any fund-raising is certainly for a worthwhile cause.”

There are 200 lights available to sponsor, with a minimum donation of £5 per light.

To donate, visit stmichaels redevelopment.blogspot.co.uk /p/fundraising-for-hospice.

html, email kim.davidson@ spellermetcalfe.com for a sponsorship form, or send a cheque payable to ‘St Michael’s Hospice’ to: Kim Davidson, PR Manager, Speller Metcalfe, Enigma Business Park, Malvern, WR14 1GQ.