AN evening of music near Malvern raised thousands of pounds to support the work of a Worcester-based hospice charity.

Guests attending event in the Great Hall at Birtsmorton Court on Friday, March 22, helped to raise around £3,000 for St Richard’s Hospice.

On the night, there was a recital by hospice doctor and pianist Rebecca Watson and singer Rebecca Rudge.

The event was hosted by hospice patron Rosalie Dawes and her husband Nigel Dawes, and was sponsored by Andrew Grant, who is also a patron of the charity.

Marilyn Peachey, trusts fundraiser at St Richard’s, said: “The evening was a great success and we were delighted to welcome 60 guests to enjoy such a special performance.

“We are thrilled to have raised a great amount for the hospice’s free care to patients and their loved ones.

“Thanks must go to our generous hospice patrons for both hosting and sponsoring the event, our brilliant pianist and singer and all those who volunteered on the night.”

Alongside a varied programme of music, including both modern and classical pieces, guests enjoyed drinks and canapés as well as being able to take part in a raffle to help raise funds for St Richard’s.

St Richard’s Hospice cares for adults with a serious progressive illness, improving their quality of life from diagnosis, during treatment and to their last days. It also supports their loved ones.

Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,300 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.

St Richard’s is an independent charity and relies on donations for three quarters of its annual £8.8m income with the remainder from the NHS.