ST ROCCO'S staff and volunteers are celebrating the latest step in the building of the new hospice.

At a ceremony on Monday night, one of the last roof tiles was put in place by the hospice's council chairman Ann Wood. The event, known as 'Topping Out' is a traditional mark of celebration as the builders can now complete their work under cover.

Mrs Wood said: "I want to give a vote of thanks to all concerned, especially to Warrington Borough Council who helped make a huge saving in our budget, to all the volunteers, the council of management, to the architects for being so patient and to the medical and nursing teams.

"They have all helped make St Rocco's Warrington's favourite charity.

"I feel very privileged to put the last tile in place. It is akin to the launching of a ship and I would have loved to have had a bottle of champagne to smash, but I don't think I would have got that past the fund-raisers!

"God bless this building and all who work in her!"

RUN with the Wolves and help raise money for St Rocco's.

Warrington RLFC's Vice-President's Club is organising a charity fun run on Sunday, September 27. Half the money raised will go to the new hospice appeal and the the rest will go to Warrington Wolves.

The length of the run will vary according to the runner's age and will start at the Wilderspool Stadium prior to a game against Wigan. There are four categories, juniors up to 10 years, intermediates up to 16 years, open age and four runner teams. The winning team and the first four runners home will all receive Wolves season tickets.

The club is also looking for corporate sponsors who will enter a team at a cost of £50.

To enter the fun run contact the St Rocco's Appeals office on 242803 or the Wolves shop in Cockhedge Centre.

CHARITY champions from a Fearnhead church have raised more than £250 for the St Rocco's Hospice Appeal.

The parishioners from Risley Independent Methodist Church held a garden party in aid of the worthy cause.

One of the organisers Lorna Percival said: "It was a smashing day.

"We are very pleased."

ARE you raising money for St Rocco's? Call GUARDIAN reporter Suzanne Elsworth on 434109 or the St Rocco's Appeals Office on 242803. If you would like to make a donation to the appeal, please send a cheque made payable to 'St Rocco's Hospice Appeal' to The St Rocco's Hospice Appeals Office, 168 Battersby Lane, Warrington. WA2 7EU.

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