PROSPECT Hospice shops in Swindon have raised more than £500,000 in the last year.

It costs £2.3 million per year to run the Wroughton hospice, and 64 per cent has to come from voluntary support.

There are seven hospice shops in Swindon, including Old Town, Havelock Street and Gorse Hill.

The staff members of the Swindon shops were brought together for a tea party to thank them for their efforts.

Hospice chairman Bill Fishlock and general manager David Line were there to show their appreciation and hand out certificates for each shop.

Fundraising co-ordinator Maureen Wishart said: "There are so many staff that we don't always get to see everyone, so it was lovely to be able to thank them all."

The hospice provides specialist palliative, psychological and spiritual care for patients with serious illnesses and those who care for them.

More than 120 people attended the celebration.

Ms Wishart added: "We really appreciate everything the shops do because, after all, we couldn't do it without them."

For further information about the hospice, its work and fundraising opportunities, call Swindon 815142 or email fundraising@prospect-hospice.org.uk.