Jo Clarke, fundraising manager at St Helena Hospice, said:

“We’re deeply grateful to the three families who have pledged to match donations, so, for example, this week your £22 gift will fund not one, but two hours of essential nursing care.

“The children of Rosemary and Mark Thompson from Colchester have pledged to give joy in their parents’ honour, just like volunteering with St Helena for 25 years gave Rosemary joy, and just like her husband gave too by supporting hospice care for decades to give joy to others. 

“The Rev Susan Wiggins from Clacton has pledged to give peace and dignity in memory of her husband Alan, because the nurses at the Hospice saw him as a human being beyond his diagnosis. 

“The family of a patient who was able to remain independent and at home with support from our rehabilitation professionals and complementary therapists, has pledged to give relief and comfort by matching your donations.

“Our partners at Total Clean have pledged to give comfort to those who need it most this Christmas. Just as they’re dedicated to creating cleaner, safer and cared for environments, they’re now helping to bring peace of mind to the many individuals and families being supported this festive period and beyond.

“Together, the families have pledged to match up to £40,000 and once this total is reached, any further donations will be gratefully received at their usual value and will all go towards providing essential hospice and bereavement care over the festive season and beyond.”

Visit www.sthelena.org.uk/give to make a donation to St Helena Hospice.

Nurse Claire Burton with Julie Warmington at St Helena Hospice