A HEREFORDSHIRE woman who believes there is no greater pleasure than being able to do something for someone without receiving anything in return is raising money for St Michael's with 35 random acts of kindness.

St Michael's Healthcare Assistant Mel Woodhouse has joined a growing number of people who have signed up to be part the 'My 35 for St Michael's' campaign, celebrating 35 years of Hospice care in Herefordshire.

While some Hospice supporters are climbing mountains, putting on public music performances or selling 35 jars of marmalade, Mel was inspired by Mother Teresa's quote, “We cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love.”

So far, Mel's acts of kindness have included paying small amounts for people's shopping, buying a homeless person sausage, chips and an energy drink, handing out flowers to people visiting Hereford County Hospital.

Most recently, Mel visited Credenhill Court Rest Home, where she treated residents to a tasty selection of cakes and spent an afternoon listening to their life stories.

Mel said, 'St Michael's is built on acts of kindness made by the community that has supported it for over 35 years. Working at the Hospice has shown me that every penny counts. It's a charity that is so close to my heart I wanted to raise as many pennies as possible and share the spirit of the Hospice.'

St Michael's Communications Manager Chris Smart said: "It's a joy to hear about the acts of kindness Mel is spreading across Herefordshire.

"It's a wonderful way to celebrate St Michael's anniversary and raise the vital funds needed to continue providing the best possible care to families living with terminal illness."

People can sign up for their own 'My 35 Challenge' by visiting st-michaels-hospice.org.uk or make a donation to Mel's Challenge here.