VOTES from the local community have helped a charity secure £3,000 to support people and their families living with a terminal illness.

At the end of last year, a bid was made to the Aviva Community Fund on behalf of Herriot Hospice Homecare. The application was made by Malton-based McClarrons, a long-time supporter of Herriot Hospice Homecare. People were asked to go online to vote for the organisation they thought should receive financial support. Herriot’s application received 1,337 votes and the charity was one of only 3 to be successful in the ‘helping the older generation’ category.

The money will now enable Herriot’s volunteer sitting service to provide companionship to 25 older people living with a terminal illness, as well as respite care for their carers.

Irene Bosomworth, Herriot Hospice Homecare’s Trust Fundraiser, said: “We are delighted to be awarded £3,000 for our Sitting Service, which supports people across Hambleton and Richmondshire.“For a charity like ours, this is a significant amount of money, which will go a very long way. “It will enable us to provide dozens of visits, with each lasting up to three hours each week.”

“It will also ensure that we are able to give a well-earned break to carers, who are the unsung heroes.

“We would like to thank McClarrons for their tremendous support. Without them, and of course the people who voted for us, this would not have been possible.”

Jonathan Copley, Head of McClarrons’ Care and Social Welfare team said: “It is fantastic to have been able to help Herriot Hospice in their efforts to obtain funding in the Aviva Community Fund.

“Having worked with Herriot for a number of years, it is clear to see how valued their work in the local community is, and how this money will enable them to reach even more people in need.”