SISTER Lynn Bell has been with the Hospice "from day one" -- and over 10 years she has seen many changes.

She now works at the new Day Unit which is "flourishing", she said.

The Day Unit offers anything from a hair dresser to complimentary therapies, and there is a garden room and sunny patio -- and all this is proving to be a hit with patients.

Visiting the purpose-built Day Unit once a week gives these people a break from their normal lives and offers the chance to take part in a range of treatments, therapies and social activities.

There is Reiki, Indian head massage and reflexology, for instance, alongside physiotherapy and arts and music therapy.

The Unit also offers stress-busting sessions for carers and clinics for out-patients.

"We are now able to provide the holistic care we've always dreamed off," said Lynn.

"It is starting to get a personality and everything is getting more organised.

"It feels good.

"We've got areas of activity and quiet -- it's comfortable and has a nice outlook.

"We also get a lot more input from other health professionals, now.

"But we couldn't manage without volunteers."

So what are the plan for the future?

"We are looking at supporting the younger patients," said Lynn.

"Our vision is a support group-type thing, drop ins... that's the dream."