A SIX million pound appeal has been launched to extend and modernise Andover’s Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

As previously reported by the Advertiser, plans have been approved to nearly double the size of the highly-regarded facility, located on the grounds of Andover War Memorial Hospital.

But those behind the expansion are now hoping to raise the six million pound needed to fund the ambitious expansion, which will include ten ensuite rooms as well as extra facilities for patients, visitors and staff.

L a u n c h i n g the appeal, the chairman of the Hospice Trustees, Dame Mary Fagan, said: “This is a massive undertaking but we firmly believe our patients and families deserve the best.

“Our current building has served us well but it would be so much more beneficial to all if this care was given in an attractive, modern, efficient, twentyfirst century building.”

Dame Mary, the former Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, says receipts from private donations and reserves have already boosted the appeal by £2.5 million.

A further contribution of £500,000 has also been provided by Hampshire County Council.

Council leader, Roy Perry, said: “We recognise the good work done by the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

“At a time when the NHS is under stress, we want to offer what help we can.

“We maintain an ‘Invest in Hampshire Fund’ which because of the size and scale of the county enables us to make one off grants to help quality of life in the county.”

With Andover and its surrounding area’s substantial growth in population since 1990, when the hospice was opened, the need for its services has increased significantly.

The new extension will include 10 en-suite rooms, each equipped with the latest medical facilities and a private patio, a room for relatives visiting family and friends, a ‘quiet’ room, extra bathrooms, office and storage rooms.

Connecting with the present building, the new extension will also include a multi-use treatment room and an improved day-care centre.

Extra facilities for patients, visitors and staff will be incorporated into the new wing.

Outside spaces will be skilfully landscaped into four distinct garden areas which will provide complete privacy for patients and visitors.

A large open-plan reception area will have direct access to the courtyard gardens.

With £3 million already raised, the hospice plans to start work on the much-needed extension early next year.

The hospice hopes to raise the final £3 million needed to fund the expansion through private donations.

Those wishing to aid the appeal can do so by making donations, hosting charity events or taking on sponsored challenges for the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

You can also donate by visiting: www.justgiving.com/cbh.