WELCOME back signs, cups of tea and home-made cakes made certain that the first day patients arriving at the new St Richard's Hospice in Worcester, yesterday were made to feel at home.

After years of fund-raising, the hard work finally paid off. Staff saw huge smiles and heard gasps of amazement from the 12 patients who saw the new £5.25m building in Wildwood Way, Spetchley, for the first time.

"Wow," was the common phrase uttered as the patients made their way through the automatic doors and into the light, airy reception area, before being led down to the welcoming day hospice area which overlooks vast lawns.

Although there was some sadness in leaving Rose Hill House - St Richard's home for the last 14 years - there was excitement in the air as the hospice embarked on a new era.

Pam Birbeck, who has been battling cancer for the last two-and-a-half years, said it was a day she and her fellow day hospice patients had been waiting for over a long time. "We've been really looking forward to it," added the 71-year-old from Warndon Villages.

"Rose Hill was nice but this is absolutely fantastic.

"It has taken a lot of hard work but it was worth it.

"When I walked in I was dumbfounded. The finishing touches and the furnishing is marvellous."

Ray Cook, 81, agreed. He described the new hospice as excellent. "I love coming to St Richard's every Tuesday," added Mr Cook of Springfield Road, Worcester. I'm so lucky to be able to come here. Everyone is so kind and helpful and would get on bended knees to help.The new hospice is great."

Gill Morris, the day hospice sister, said all the patients had been excited about the new hospice, which will still offer all the facilities as before including physiotherapy, hairdressing, creative work and a hydrotherapy suite.

She said: "It's absolutely lovely. It'a a great environment and although it will take a while to adapt, I know everyone will be very happy here."