MORE than a decade of dedicated service has been recognised with this week's bottle of champagne.

Barbara Ferrier, 60, started visiting Kemp Hospice patients in their homes 12 years ago and she now also helps out at the Sutton Park Road centre three or four times a month.

"I visit people in their homes if their carers have to go out," she said.

"I also drive them to the hospice, to go shopping or to a hospital appointment.

"Most people are very appreciative."

Mrs Ferrier, of Eardiston, added: "We encourage people to go to the day care centre if they are able.

"A lot of patients live on their own and like to mix with other people.

"And we take hospice patients on outings every couple of months, visiting castles, cinemas or pubs to give them a change of scene."

She said she was a firm believer in the need for the "essential" £2.2 million expansion plans which will allow more people to take advantage of the services on offer.