I thank the people of York and the surrounding communities on behalf of everyone who has benefited from St Leonard's Hospice and its services during the past year for the magnificent support they have once again given us.

Special thanks to our dedicated and loyal team of volunteers who work at the hospice, in our shops and fundraising.

Next February it will be exactly 20 years since St Leonard's opened its doors to its first inpatients. Much has happened since then; we have cared for more than 6,000 local people, with many more attending our Daycare sessions; we have twice extended the original buildings, most recently through the Millennium Appeal which, with the help of the Evening Press, raised over £2 million for our splendid new annexe; and we have developed our expertise in palliative care.

We have also continued to care for people who have been bereaved in our role of caring not just for patients, but also for their families.

We shall be marking our 20 years with a service in York Minster on Sunday, February 13 from 1.30pm.

Everyone is invited to join us. Tickets, which are free, should be obtained in advance by ringing the Hospice Fundraising Centre on 01904 781576.

Fundraising for the specialist palliative care we provide is a constant uphill struggle, but the generosity of individuals, support groups, schools, and businesses is outstanding. Without you we could not continue our work with patients and their families at the time of their greatest need. Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Martyn Callaghan,

Chief Executive,

St Leonard's Hospice,

Tadcaster Road, York.

Updated: 09:43 Friday, December 17, 2004