Four garden patio furniture sets have been stolen from Bury Hospice's inpatient unit in a "devastating" theft.

The Rochdale Old Road hospice has called for help for the community this week after four of its rooms were left without outdoor furniture.

At the hospice, patients have their own private terrace connected to their bedrooms where the furniture is situated.

From here they have access to the gardens, something the hospice said "brings so many families a real joy in what is a really difficult time".

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Chief executive Helen Lockwood said: “On behalf of our staff patients and community who contribute tirelessly to the running of this hospice, I am devastated that some people find it acceptable to take these away from our patients and their families at the most difficult of times."

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Hospice services are provided free of charge but as a charity it costs £4m to run with just 13 per cent coming from the NHS.

Therefore, the hospice relies on community fundraising efforts to meet their targets as well as people playing their lottery, visiting their shops and volunteering.

Following the theft, the hospice has been accepting donations towards bringing "back these much-needed spaces to our patients and their families".

Yesterday, Thursday, staff thanked the people and local businesses that had been in touch to provide support.

An announcement made via Facebook said: “Thank you for the concern and support.

“The help we receive from our local community means so much and we could not provide our care if we did not have this amazing support.

“If anyone wishes to be sent further information regarding helping us to replace these items, please email fundraising@buryhospice.org.uk and we will be in touch very soon. “

If you have any information about the theft contact police on 101.