I WAS delighted to read your headline "Children's hospice gets a £1m boost".

I have been a volunteer at Derian House Children's Hospice in Chorley since its opening 10 years ago and have seen the service develop to support the families of children with life-shortening conditions, both within the Hospice and in the community. This care also continues when the families sadly lose their children.

Derian was founded and supported by the generosity of the community, it receives minimal Government funding, so this money, which is to be given over a three-year period, is indeed a boost. However, let us not forget that the Hospice needs this amount annually to continue the current service it provides. Lottery money will allow for the service, especially the 24-hour care offered to children in the community, to be developed further. However, it must be ensured, through voluntary contributions, that funds are available to continue this level of care once the Lottery cash has been exhausted.

If you would like more information regarding Derian House, please call the Appeals Office on 01257 271271.

Val Sharp

Dunham Close

Westhoughton