HOSPICE staff and volunteers will be getting into the festive spirit by holding a Christmas coffee morning in York.

Mince pies and cakes will be served at St Leonard's Hospice, in Tadcaster Road, opposite Tesco, during the fun event next week.

Relatives, supporters and passers-by are invited to attend on Wednesday between 10am and noon.

They will be given the chance to take part in a tombola or to buy hospice greetings cards and the 2003 calendar featuring old and new pictures of York.

All the money raised will be used to support the work of the hospice in caring for patients.

Helen Moreton, St Leonard's Hospice community fundraiser, said: "This is like an open house at the hospice.

"We welcome supporters old and new to call in and share a cup of coffee or tea with us."

Updated: 11:19 Saturday, November 23, 2002