A £4m appeal to build a children's hospice in Worcester for life-limited youngsters has reached the half-way mark.

Fund-raisers from Acorns, which plans to build the 10-bedroom home in Bath Road next year, were today "over the moon" to reach the £2m milestone.

Chief executive John Overton said it was a fantastic achievement.

"It is a tribute to the hard work and generosity of people across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire who are backing the appeal," he said.

"Everyone, from Acorns families to care staff, fund-raisers and to supporters are absolutely delighted the appeal has gone so well."

The Three Counties Appeal, which will benefit youngsters from Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, smashed through the £2m mark with £92,180 worth of donations in December.

Since its launch in April last year, people from Worcestershire have donated a quarter of the money, £436,885.

Herefordshire has contributed £95,244, Gloucestershire, £21,419, and £126,138 has come from other areas.

This rest has been made up from trust money and company donations.

The hospice will be Acorns' third - joining one in Birmingham and Walsall. Together, they will give up to 180 children the chance to benefit from specialist care and facilities. This will include up to 65 youngsters from Worcestershire.

Mr Overton said there was a real need for a local, accessible hospice and appealed for more support.

"With the public's help we can offer a lifeline to families in the three counties, offering as much support as they need, for as long as they need it," he said.