OUR Hospice Buy A Brick campaign has gained a big boost from the backing of the Archbishop of York.

As the appeal came within a few pounds of the £1.5 million milestone, Dr David Hope gave his blessing to people purchasing a piece of the new St Leonard's Hospice extension for £5 a brick.

The campaign, launched in the Evening Press four weeks ago, has already raised £7,810.

Now with the support of Dr Hope, who is president of St Leonard's, and the help of sponsorship, the hospice has produced 5,000 leaflets to encourage even more donations to help them reach their £2 million target.

Speaking to hospice staff and trustees Dr Hope said he personally knew many people who had experienced care in St Leonard's, and added: "Working together I am sure the remainder of the funds will be found to support the wonderful and very special care that is given to patients and their families in the hospice."

Janet Morley, St Leonard's fundraising manager, said: "It is a great boost to see the building work going ahead and to see the foundation stone laid for this wonderful new building. We are so encouraged too by the number of Buy A Brick coupons that are coming in from readers of the Press.

"People do want to help and we are very grateful. Thanks to Roberts Construction Ltd who have paid the cost of printing the special leaflets, we are now keen to distribute them to as many people as possible.

"Every donation really does count, especially as we are about to hit the £1.5 million mark and our final target of £2 million is in our sights."

The leaflets are being distributed with the hospice newsletter and are available from its reception and shops.

Janet would like to hear from businesses, or clubs, who could take a number of leaflets to distribute among members, customers, staff or colleagues - or if you would like one or two to send to family and friends - please contact her, or any members of the fundraising team, on 09104-781576, or e-mail them on SLHFRC@MSN.com

Meanwhile, a musical treat awaits hospice supporters today when Coro Cantabile, a Welsh ladies' choir, gives a concert in Holy Trinity Church, Micklegate.

It will feature a wide range of choral pieces to suit all tastes - from sacred to secular, from musicals to spirituals.

There will be a collection for our Hospice 2000 Appeal after the concert, which starts at 6pm.

andrew.hitchon@ycp.co.uk