HEALTH staff have raised more than £100 for The Bolton News Garden of Tranquillity appeal.

Workers at the Bolton Centre for Sexual Health, which is based at the Royal Bolton Hospital, have collected £115 by not sending Christmas cards, but donating money to our appeal.

The appeal will see the gardens at Bolton Hospice transformed into a haven of tranquillity for patients, their friends and family.

Diane Bird, an administrator at the hospital arranged the collection, which normally goes to Christie's Hospital in Manchester.

Mrs Bird, aged 62, of Leyton Close, Farnworth, said: "My husband has been diagnosed with three forms of cancer, which is why we previously donated the money to Christie's, but because we're based in Bolton it just seemed more appropriate that we give the money to a local cause.

"We asked staff about it, and they were all really enthusiastic about the appeal.

"I'm delighted with how much we've managed to raise."

The Bolton News launched the Garden of Tranquillity appeal to raise £100,000 to transform the run down grounds of Bolton Hospice, which have not been renovated since the hospice opened 14 years ago.

Most of the gardens are covered in grass, meaning people in wheelchairs and those using walking frames cannot access them.

Patio areas are filled with broken, cracked and uneven paving stones.

Under the plans, pathways will be built, providing disabled access, and there will be private seating areas for patients to spend time with their loved ones.

There will be a water feature and a sensory garden.

If you would like to make a donation, cheques and postal orders can be made payable to Bolton Hospice and sent to The Bolton News, Newspaper House, Churchgate, Bolton, BL1 1DE.

By filling in the coupon, above, Bolton Hospice will be eligible for Gift Aid.

If you are organising a fundraising event, contact The Bolton News health correspondent, Jane Lavender, on 01204 537350.