A CHERISHED dream became reality on Tuesday when the first patients stepped over the threshold of the Burnley and Pendle Hospice.

Years of hard work by dedicated supporters across the area helped to build and equip the £1.3 million hospice at Colne Road, Reedley.

Staff estimate a further £600,000 a year will be needed to cover staff and running costs.

Currently, there are just eight day patients. The number will grow gradually to 15, with ten in-patients during April.

Hospice general manager Drew Kimber said: "We want to make sure everything is running smoothly before our in-patients arrive in April. The staff and the volunteers are doing a wonderful job in getting things sorted out.

"We are going to have a series of open days for our neighbours, GPs and health staff to let them have a look around."

The hospice's small band of staff and volunteers is about to be expanded to take on 40 full and part time nursing, auxiliary and catering staff.

The idea of giving help and support to the sick in their own homes has been boosted with cash from the national lottery with the promise of £130,000 a year for the next three years.

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