THE support and generosity of people in Launceston has helped a local friends group raise thousands of pounds over the years, and they say their real secret to success seems to be having fun!

Formed in 1993, the Children's Hospice South West (CHSW) Launceston Friends Group has been going since the very early days of the charity, before CHSW's first hospice, Little Bridge House, was built. During that time they have enjoyed organising a range of events and have helped raise well over £250,000.

Lavinia Archer, Chair of CHSW's Launceston Friends Group, said: "I remember going up to Barnstaple and standing in a muddy field being shown where our first hospice was to be built. I feel very proud that Little Harbour is now being built in Cornwall; it is vital that we have a children's hospice down here.

"We've tried everything over the years to raise funds; concerts, wacky races, dog shows, rambles, art exhibitions, and of course cream teas. The annual garden trail, which we've done for five or six years now is one we really enjoy.

"This year it was on Sunday, July 11 and a number of different gardens in South Petherwin opening their gates for the afternoon. We've made it into quite an event over the years, with duck racing, afternoon teas and country crafts also on offer. There are children's competitions, and the top class of the primary school are making scarecrows to help people find each garden."

CHSW is the only organisation in the region providing specialist hospice care to families with life-limited child­ren. Through its hospices – Little Bridge House in North Devon, Charlton Farm in North Somerset, and eventually Little Harbour in Cornwall – the charity provides a range of respite, palliative, emergency and end of life care for sick children.

However, there is more to it than that – the homely hospices provide care and support for the whole family and a place for them to relax and make the most of the precious time they have together.

As a charity, CHSW relies on the generosity of people of the South West and could not sustain the vital service provided, and extend this into Cornwall, without the help and support of local individuals, businesses, and groups such as the Launceston Friends Group.

Lavinia continued: "We don't have a committee as such. We meet up and have a drink from time to time, so it's more like a social event. We're a pretty friendly bunch!"

In order to continue their fantastic fundraising effort to help build Little Harbour, and support CHSW into the future, the Launceston Friends Group is seeking new members. 

Lavinia added: "Don't be frightened off by the word 'volunteering'; you don't have to do something big and grand. Every little bit people can do is helpful, for instance we have a lady who simply helps out by washing up at events. As with raising money, lots of little things add up to make a large total.

"We just need people who are willing to give an amount of time; it doesn't matter how much or little as long as you're reliable. It's easy to join our friends group and great fun to fundraise!"