PLANS to build a new North Devon Hospice outreach centre in Holsworthy have been welcomed for its aim 'care closer' to the area.

The hospice is welcoming the public to an open day in Holsworthy Memorial Hall on April 9, where they can find out more about how families affected by a life-limiting illness can achieve quality of life in spite of difficult circumstances. There will also be the chance to see the plans and designs for the new building.

Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive of North Devon Hospice, said that this was a landmark moment for the charity, as well as communities in the Holsworthy area.

He said: "For 30 years North Devon Hospice has been providing care right across the vast rural are of North Devon. For the Holsworthy area this has essentially been provided through our specialist community nurse, Annie Hogg. For over 20 years she has been supporting patients and their families in their home as well as at the community hospital. However, the travel time to our main hospice base in Barnstaple is often a barrier for patients and their families from West Devon to benefit from the other care that is available to them.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.