HOSPICE fundraisers have set themselves the target of raising the final £1million needed for a brand new state-of-the-art facility in south Essex.

Supporters are planning to sing, dance, jump and run to raise the cash in 2019 with two choirs getting a head start by raising £4,300 during a series of concerts..

Hadleigh Voices and Canvey Community Choir are among those helping to fund the new hospice opposite Priory Park, in Southend.

The two choirs raised more than £1,000 during their festive show which was held at St Nicholas’s Church, Canvey Island on December 7.

George Whatley, chairman of Canvey Community Choir, said: “I would like to say a big thank you to my choir, and to Hadleigh Voices Community Choir for joining with us to sing for Havens.

“A big thank you to everyone who joined us at either April or December’s concert, donated a prize to our raffle or indeed bought a raffle ticket or two - you have helped us raise a fantastic amount of money which will mean that Havens Hospices can continue ‘making every day count’ for patients and their families across the region for as long as they are needed.”

Linda Darling, chairman of Hadleigh Voices Community Choir, added: “I actually volunteer for Havens Hospices in their volunteer services team so I know how much they rely on the generosity of the public both in terms of giving their time and helping to fundraise for the hospices.”

Sally Bridger, community fundraiser at Havens Hospices said, “What is so lovely about this fundraiser is that it really has been driven by a love for the local community – these two choirs have come together and shown what a difference community can make.

“On behalf of everyone here at Havens Hospices I’d like to thank everyone involved – our hospices can only exist because of the generosity of our supporters.

“Your kindness means that we are a step closer to the new Fair Havens being a reality so, thank you again.”

Building work has now started on the new Fair Havens Hospice in Prittlewell.

It will incorporate 16 in-patient beds, increased day hospice services and additional family support which will enable the care team to care for twice as many patients throughout Southend, Rochford and Castle Point. The hospice is expected to open in 2020.

For more information visit www.fairhavensforlife.co.uk