Keetch presents letter to PM on behalf of the Acorns Hospice.

10.59.18am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 27th Apr 2006

West Midlands Liberal Democrats MP Paul Keetch, this week presented a letter to 10 Downing Street on behalf of the Acorns Hospice.

Supported by the Rotary Club of Ross-on-Wye, Mr Keetch along with Rotary Club member, Mr Philip Dazeley presented the letter to the Prime Minister urging him to increase funding to support Acorn Hospices throughout the country.

The Acorns Hospice is an organisation dedicated to the care of children with terminal illnesses. In the West Midlands, there are currently three hospices. The nearest hospice to Herefordshire, in Worcester is facing cash shortages which are threatening bed numbers and vital services.

Commenting, following the presentation Mr Keetch said "Acorns is a marvellous charity, which provides essential care to children suffering from terminal diseases, as well as much needed support to their families. It deserves decent funding from this Government.

"The hard work and dedication of the Ross Rotary Club is an example to us all - I hope the Prime Minister takes note and acts upon the recommendations outlined in the letter. If he is so adamant on creating a healthier and ;more caring society in Britain, he needs to free up more funds to support our cash-strapped hospices."