BURY Hospice has thanked people for the "overwhelming" support during the lockdown period, while also urging others to help support fundraising efforts where they can.

Many people have undergone challenges to raise money for the hospice, with their regular income streams from events and their shop having ceased due to the virus.

The hospice's CEO Eloise Burke said: "Whilst the past few weeks have been difficult for everyone, never before has our motto that we are ‘In the Community, for the Community, about the Community’ been more relevant.

"We have been overwhelmed by the strength of community support that has been shown to us by the encouraging messages, donations and community fundraising.”

She also praised the efforts of the hospice's staff during the pandemic, saying that she was proud of their "ongoing commitment, strength and dedication."

Ms Burke picked out several heartwarming fundraising stories to illustrate the point of the community spirit that has rallied around the hospice.

They include the 'Jolly Boys'- a group of Bury men who raised more than £8,500 following a head-shaving challenge, Bury Grammar School launching their 450 Challenge in a bid to raise £4,500 by the time they reach what would have been their Founders Day on May 7, and one of their nurses, Kay Byrne, who is running her own Justgiving page to fundraise for her marathon challenge in September.

She added: “It’s community events like these I’d urge people to support, as whilst we can’t fundraise for ourselves, our community fundraising for us is invaluable. "