Staff, patients and supporters of St Richard's Hospice are celebrating after plans for a new hospice were approved by Worcester City Council.

The new £5.25 million hospice will be situated on a three and a half-acre site opposite the Countryside Centre on Wildwood Way, Worcester.

It will feature a new bedded unit, including fifteen specialist beds for people with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Estate agent Andrew Grant has been selected to head a team of fundraisers, who will work to raise the money needed for the facility.

Jeannie Young, chairman of St Richard's governors, said: "I am delighted that Andrew will be heading the appeal. He's worked closely with us at St Richard's over the years and is definitely the right man for the job. It's a very exciting time and I'm thrilled to have Andrew on board."

With plans for the new building coming one step nearer to becoming a reality, the hospice is looking to build up its team of volunteers.

The call is supported by Olive Latham, who has lived in Upton for more than 30 years and became a volunteer soon after the organisation was formed.

She describes her role as a member of the home care team as "incredibly rewarding".

"The most important skill is listening," she said, "Just being there for patients, listening to them talk about whatever concerns them and letting them know we care. I find it a great privilege to sit and be with them.

"I think more people should take the bull by the horns and become a volunteer. It's fascinating and worthwhile and there are so many areas to become involved in."

Olive has helped to organise a volunteer recruitment roadshow at St Peter and St Paul's Church rooms in Upton on Saturday, January 31 from 10am to 12.30pm. People can meet staff and volunteers from the organisation.

The current hospice, based in Rose Hill, Worcester, cared for more than 1,100 patients and families last year.

For further information contact St Richard's Hospice on 01905 763963.