POORLY children in the county are looking for good friends to help raise £4million.

The Acorns Children's Hospice Trust is setting up friends groups across the three counties to drum up support for its new hospice for life-limited children.

Appealing for fundraisers to come forward, Acorns community fundraising co-ordinator Fran Winterbourn, said: "If we are to meet the Three Counties Appeal target of £4million we need everyone's support; from schools, businesses, groups and individuals. We know the target is a challenge but we hope the local community will rally round and pledge their support."

Acorns is looking for a solid base across Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire which supporters can use to plan their fundraising events. It is hoped enough money will be raised so building work can begin at the new hospice site in Worcester this autumn.

"The Friends group can help with local fundraising activities and we hope it will also provide a focus for people wanting to work together to organise some larger events.

"If you've lots of ideas and enthusiasm and would like to be part of helping Acorns realise its dream of building a new hospice for children, come along and join us," added Fran.

Anyone interested in helping to set up a Herefordshire group of friends can contact Fran on 01905 767676.