PROSPECT Hospice has been given a giant fundraising boost by catalogue firm Argos.

Helping Hospices, Helping Families is the theme for a nationwide fundraising drive.

Stores in the Brunel Centre and Greenbridge will raise funds and awareness for Prospect Hospice in Wroughton.

The two-year initiative will run throughout the UK and aims to raise more than £600,000 across the UK.

Collection boxes will be in store for customers to donate change.

The money will help centres like Prospect Hospice provide care to terminally ill children and adults.

It will also help staff offer support and advice to patients' family and friends. Maggie Stevens, manager of the Brunel branch, said: "We're excited about beginning this partnership with Prospect Hospice as they provide such an essential service which we are proud to support."

Rachel Taylor, assistant community fundraiser for Prospect Hospice, said: "The Argos partnership means so much to Prospect Hospice.

"It will help raise funds for the hospice, making a difference to local patients and families in our community.

"Argos seems really enthusiastic about fundraising for us, their chosen charity for the year." The hospice currently houses 11 people, although much of their work is carried out in the community.

Ms Taylor said: "We have around 100 staff members who visit patients in their own homes.

"We rely heavily on volunteers, of which we have around 300."

Last year Tesco in Swindon chose Prospect as its charity for the year and managed to raise £17,000. To make a donation direct to Prospect Hospice call the fundraising team on 01793 815142 or email fundraising@prospect. hospice.net

Kevin Shoesmith