ON Friday it will be exactly 30 years to the day that the first Acorns Children’s Hospice was officially opened by Diana Princess of Wales on December, 14 1988.

When the Royal visitor opened the hospice to children and families in 1988, Acorns was only the third children’s hospice in the world.

Now, the charity has grown to be the largest children’s hospice in the UK, operating the much-loved hospice in Bath Road, Worcester and two others in Birmingham and Walsall.

The city's hospice opened its doors in 2005 after a fundraising campaign. It was only possible because the land it is built on was gifted by the late June and Willie Sayce, who owned three acres of land behind their home. Today, it is known as Acorns for the Three Counties and helps more than 210 children and more than 300 families.

Acorns Chief Executive, Toby Porter, said: “We are so proud to have reached such a significant milestone. Whilst we’ve seen lots of changes over the years, what is absolutely the same is our ethos of providing care, support, joy and laughter for children and families and that will remain as we look to our future.

“We wouldn’t be here without the support of our wonderful communities and the dedication of our remarkable staff and volunteers.

"They have all been instrumental in empowering Acorns over the last three decades and with their continued support we can reach even more children and families over the next 30 years and beyond.”

Acorns provides specialist palliative care to children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, as well as support for their families. In the past year, Acorns has cared for more than 870 children and supported over 1,140 families, including those who are bereaved. To donate, visit acorns.org.uk/donate