A LANCASHIRE man whose daughter died of cancer has launched an Internet appeal to help raise cash for Derian House.

John Ryan of Hindley Green, Wigan, whose daughter Katie died in April 1995 aged just 21 months, has created a web site for the hospice.

He is confident that his emotional message will cut across international barriers and persuade parents to contribute towards the high cost of keeping the hospice going.

John, who last year condemned mindless vandals who had stolen toys from his daughter's grave in Howe Bridge Cemetery, Wigan, said: "To discover that your child's life is to be cut tragically short is probably the worst thing any parent can contemplate. It is for families such as these that Derian House is a haven, somewhere to provide these children with the maximum amount of fun, happiness and friendship in their short lives."

John, who works for Walkers Crisps, tells those who log onto web site address www.derianhouse.org.uk, that it cost a massive £800,000 a year for Derian House, which opened in 1993, to remain open.

He added: "We are currently supporting more than 170 families. There is no charge for the hospice care provided at Derian House and we are continually grateful for the donations we receive which enable us to continue to provide such care."

Anyone wishing to contribute money should send their donation to: Derian House Childrens Hospice,Chancery Road, Astley Village, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1DH.

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