A TRIO of Worcestershire hospices have joined forces to help make it easier for supporters to help the charities out.

The South Worcestershire Hospices Lottery, which is jointly owned by Worcester-based St Richard’s Hospice and Acorns Children’s Hospice and has raised more than £1.8 million over the past 15 years, has merged with Bromsgrove’s Primrose Hospices Lottery.

On Wednesday, April 1 the two funds will merge to create the Worcestershire Hospices Lottery, saving all three charities money in running costs, meaning more from each ticket sold can go towards supporting patients and their families.

Lottery manager Dawn Scott said: “We were keen that this merger would not have any impact on how members play and pay for the lottery.

“Due to the saving in administration costs resulting from this merger, each of the three hospices will receive increased donations.

“We felt that in this economic climate it made sense to pool our resources and keep our costs down so more of the profit can go where it is needed.”

The combined scheme will still be known as The Hospices Lottery and the prize fund has been increased from £1,300 to £1,700 a week.

For more information on The Hospices Lottery call 01905 760 910 or email SWHLottery@strichards.org.uk.