A NEW conservatory is to be officially opened at Reedley's Pendleside Hospice thanks to the generosity of a solicitor.

The late John G Whittle, who died in September 2000, was known throughout the area and a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Colne.

He has bequeathed a substantial part of his estate to the hospice to distribute among the charities of their choice.

Kaye Bartle, Hospice Care fund-raising manager, said: "Pendleside Hospice received £15,000 which has been used to built a conservatory adjoining the in-patient unit and for use by patients, staff and visitors."

The conservatory was constructed by Clitheroe company Ultraframe and was finished before Christmas.

It has recently been equipped with furniture and fittings donated by the family and friends of the late Dr Ken Cooper, also of Colne.

Dr Cooper was a founder member of the hospice and a trustee until his death on holiday last year.

His widow Joyce manages the Colne Hospice shop on Dockray Street.

Other donations of furniture were made by the Rotary Club of Padiham in memory of Margaret Town.

The conservatory was officially opened today and a plaque was unveiled.