IT was thanks to a group of people drawn together by the Bolton Royal Infirmary Centenary Appeal that a need for hospice care in Bolton was first recognised.

That was in May 1984 -- and it marked the start of a long campaign.

A steering group was created to investigate the requirements, in consultation with the Bolton District Health Authority and its officers. The Health Authority then held a seminar on terminal illness, in Bolton Town Hall on April 10, 1986, attended by more than 200 people.

The outcome was that the need was finally officially recognised by the District Health Authority and eventually a commitment to financial support of the hospice project was made.

On September 29, 1986, the steering group organised the first public meeting about the Hospice Project, held in Bolton School.

The need had been established, a commitment from the DHA obtained, all that was needed now was the support and goodwill of the community.

On June 29, 1987, the first meeting of the governing body or Council of Management took place and the company was now registered as a charity.

The proposed site was said to have many advantages, being easily accessible by foot from the bus station and had good passing public transport services. The situation was peaceful with a rural outlook over Queens Park, yet it enjoyed close proximity to town.

Outline Planning permission was granted and design plans, together with artists' impressions were made available.

There would be 14 beds in single rooms, each with its own verandah overlooking landscaped gardens and the Queens Park area.

Other main features and services would be a non-denominational Chapel, communal rooms, a day care centre for 10 patients, Home Care Service and training facilities.