An appeal to raise £1.3m towards the cost of updating a children’s hospice has almost been met.

In less than four months Demelza Hospice Care for Children in Bobbing has raised £1m towards the cost of refurbishing the bedrooms, adding en suite bathrooms, creating two bedrooms for teenagers and building a hydrotherapy pool. It means the Bricks and Water campaign is now just £300,000 short of the grand total.

The main aim is to help Demelza’s children live out their lives with dignity, privacy and comfort. Planning permission has already been granted by Swale council and Abbott Construction started building in February.

Ted Gladdish, Demelza’s chief executive officer, said: "A huge thank you to everyone who has made a donation."

To give money call 01795 845288, visit www.demelza.org.uk or send a cheque or postal order made payable to Demelza – make it clear your donation is for the Bricks and Water appeal