A CAMPAIGN to encourage people to write their wills has been launched by Worcester’s St Richard’s Hospice.

“I know it’s something many people just don’t like to think about and keep putting off but it makes much more sense to get it done today,” said Tricia Cavell, hospice fund-raising manager, at the launch of the St Richard’s Write a Will month for September.

“Very often people don’t see any urgency about the issue, whereas in fact it is extremely important and can make a huge difference to the lives of those left behind.

“Current figures show that one in three of us dies without leaving a will, leaving potential arguments and financial hardship for our nearest and dearest.

“After a life-time of hard work and saving many people still die without a will.

“They don’t realise that if you die without a will, or intestate as it is known, you will have no say over how your estate is split and your money could end up going to the Treasury.”

Dawn Oliver, of Harrison Clark in Worcester, one of the participating solicitors, said: “Simple wills are straightforward and it makes so much sense to have them written or updated in a sensible time-scale and not an emotional panic.”

Marilyn Peachey, hospice director of fund-raising, said: “We very much hope people will use the opportunity to leave a legacy to St Richard’s, however large or small, but there is no obligation to do so. We are very grateful to anyone who takes part and also to all the solicitors who are giving their time for free to help the hospice.”

Participating solicitors across the county are offering to write a simple will during September, for as little as £60 for a single or £85 for a double. All the fees are being donated to St Richard’s.

Participating firms include Parkinson Wright in Worcester, Evesham and Droitwich, Evans and Webb in Malvern, Harrison Clark in Worcester and MFG Solicitors in Worcester.