FUNDRAISING is vital for the future of Derian House children's hospice.

Despite caring for children across the North West, only a fraction of its work is paid for with statutory funding.

Managers, who have helped make Derian House one of the most cost-effective children's hospices nationally, must still find £1 million this year alone to pay for its upkeep.

Many fundraising events are staged aimed at all ages, while donations come in from individuals, groups and companies.

On September 15, there will be an event held in Morecambe Bay, where an official guide will lead walkers across the sands. Refreshments are available and organisers would like as many sponsored walkers to join them as possible.

There will also be a gala weekend event on June 15 and 16 and the popular Forget Me Not appeal, which was launched in 1996, will be staged again this year in April through to May.

Supporters can buy one of the flowers, chosen because it represents the philosophy of the hospice, to raise funds and organisers are appealing for businesses to display boxes.

Donations also come in from business, such as Haslingden-based Holchem Laboratories, which handed over a cheque for £20,033, raised by a dinner dance and auction (pictured).

Hospice general manager Trevor Briggs received the cheque from Holchem MD Steve Bell, his secretary Sylvia Osburn. Also pictured are youngsters who were at the hospice on the day, (from left) Andrea Bridges, David and Zena Grundy, and Oliver Ashton with nurse Catherine Atherton.

Although sadly 17-year-old Andrea died shortly after the photograph was taken, her family have given permission for the photograph to be used, because they knew how much it had meant to her to be involved.

Teams of four are also being sought to take part in a Deriathon corporate challenge, sponsored by LG Philips Displays of Blackburn on Saturday, April 27.

Teams, who could be in the running for trophies and prizes, will be taking part in swimming, running, cycling and rowing indoors at Nest View Leisure Centre in Preston as part of the event.

There will also be a Caribbean Cruise event, to be staged on Lake Windermere, on Friday, June 28 and the charity is looking for runners for the British Open 10k Road Race in London on July 21.

For details of any of these events or other ways you can help, contact the appeals office on 01257 271271, email derian.house@virgin.net, or for any more information contact the website at www.derianhouse.org.uk