ACORNS is looking for volunteers in South Herefordshire to help with its major fund-raising appeal to build a children's hospice for the Three Counties. The hospice is looking for 'champions' to help with cheque presentations, talks and organising small-scale fund-raising events.

"With the success of our appeal, we really do need more people in South Herefordshire who could give a give brief talk on behalf of Acorns or perhaps attend a cheque presentation, said Fran Winterbourn, community fund-raising co-ordinator. We would offer plenty of training and support as well as familiarisation visits to the hospice site to get a feel for Acorns, our plans and what we are all about."

The hospice would also love to hear from anyone who would be interested in helping to organise small fund-raising events such as coffee morning or a raffle or help with street collections.

For more information on how to become an Acorns champion or help with the appeal in South Herefordshire, contact 01905 767676.

A SCOTTISH piper will be serenading a bidder in a charity promise auction this month.

The services of the bagpiper will be auctioned at Hereford's Left Bank on Thursday, March 27, with other exciting lots, including a dinner for six cooked in the bidder's own home, an interior design consultation and plan and a personal website deigned free of charge.

The event, in aid of Acorns' new children's hospice, has been organised by Annie Doherty from Lucton near Leominster.

"The Three Counties Appeal is such a fantastic local charity. I'm hoping that over 100 people will come along and would be delighted if we could raise more than £1,000," she said.

The auction will be conducted by auctioneer and estate agent, Bill Jackson, and will start at 7.30pm for 8pm. Admission is free.

PUPILS at Hunderton Infant School in Hereford raised funds for the Acorns Children's Hospice with a 'Wear What You Like Day'. Fran Winterbourn, from the hospice, is visiting the school on Monday March 31 to receive a cheque.