GCCC Charity 2003

Gloucestershire County Cricket Club are delighted to announce that the nominated charity for 2003 is "Childrens Hospice South West".

Little Bridge House in North Devon is presently the only hospice for children in the South West. Children's Hospice South West is going to build a new hospice in the Bristol area. When a child is diagnosed with such an illness which offers no hope of a cure or when treatment is abandoned families feel isolated and alone in their grief. The new hospice will offer respite, relaxation and friendship in the 24 hour care of a very sick child as well as excellent medical and palliative care. They will also offer support for the whole family following the child's death, for as long as needed. The cost of providing such a service means they have to raise over £1.8 million every year. In the South West alone there are 800 children facing death in childhood. The new hospice will make a tremendous difference to the lives of so many families experiencing the uniquely difficult challenge of caring for a very sick child.

Club Captain Mark Alleyne "The players at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club are very pleased to help raise funds and awareness for the new hospice. We are aware of the role of Little Bridge House and feel strongly about supporting the new hospice in the Bristol area."

Hayley Nash, Regional Fundraiser "This is a very exciting time for everyone at Children's Hospice South West with our plans to build a new hospice in Bristol well underway. In order to build, equip and sustain this new hospice we need to raise £10 million. We are therefore absolutely delighted to be the nominated charity for Gloucestershire County Cricket Club. Their support will help us raise vital funds and enable us to raise awareness of the desperate need for a second children's Hospice in the South West"