AN Ipswich charity which is celebrating its 20th birthday this year today called on the public to come up with fundraising ideas to make the anniversary extra special.

AN Ipswich charity which is celebrating its 20th birthday this year today called on the public to come up with fundraising ideas to make the anniversary extra special.

St Elizabeth Hospice in Foxhall Road has been providing specialist care for those who have terminal illnesses since 1989.

The hospice was officially opened by Princess Anne on December 5 that year.

Thanks to support from the community over the last two decades, the hospice has continued to provide vital services for both patients and their families and carers, including complementary therapy, day care, support at home and help for the relatives of patients.

The hospice has recently undergone a �1million facelift, including the refurbishment of the dining room and the creation of additional physiotherapy and occupational therapy services.

There has also been an upgrade to the nurse call system in the in-patient unit.

The hospice's services are provided for free, which is why fundraising is essential.

It costs �10 per minute to run the hospice, with annual running costs of �5.2 million.

A hospice spokesman said: “We are planning lots of exciting events to mark our 20th anniversary and we would love to hear from people.”

The hospice is keen to hear from those with ideas on ways to celebrate the anniversary and those with memories of the hospice.

If you can help in any way, contact the fundraising team on 01473 723600 or e-mail fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk.

Are you raising money for a good cause? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.