AUDREY and Chris Tomkinson have both been diagnosed with terminal cancer and are receiving day care at Bolton Hospice.

But rather than wanting sympathy they want to play their part in making the final days of those who follow them a little better.

They were among the first to respond when The Bolton News launched its £100,000 campaign to renovate gardens at the hospice.

Audrey and Chris want their legacy to be that they helped turn the gardens into an oasis of beauty - and challenged their neighbours to get involved too.

Those neighbours - who live Harwood Vale Court, Harwood - rose to the challenge and raised £314 for the appeal during a tabletop sale.

George Lockton, aged 67, who organised the event, said: "Audrey and Chris are very popular and as soon as we read about their involvement, we wanted to do all we could to help. They are a lovely couple and Audrey would do absolutely anything for anyone.

"This is a fantastic campaign and I want to see the money raised as quickly as possible so the work in the gardens can start."

Currently the area at the hospice is covered in grass, limiting disabled access.

The renovated gardens would be accessible to those in wheelchairs and using Zimmer frames. There will also be private seating areas, a water feature and a sensory garden.

Cheques and postal orders should be made payable to Bolton Hospice and can be returned to The Bolton News, Newspaper House, Churchgate, Bolton, BL1 1DE.

Card payments can be made directly to the hospice by calling 01204 663055.

If you are holding an event, contact The Bolton News health reporter, Jane Lavender, on 01204 537350.