A hospice has called for local people to join its team of volunteers.

St Clare Hospice needs more help from the public across all departments, from clinical services to charity shop staff.

Volunteering at the Hastingwood-based hospice is flexible, with some of its 450 volunteers choosing to give their time on an ad-hoc basis, while others commit to a regular shift.

Kevin Packer, a St Clare Volunteer who works on the inpatient unit, said: “One of the best things about volunteering at St Clare is knowing that when I finish my shift, I have made a difference.

"However big or small, whether it’s a patient or a relative that just might want a chat or a simple cup of tea, as a volunteer I am there to listen and make the patient and family as comfortable as I can.

"When I get home, I know I’ve done something to contribute to the community.”

For more information on volunteering, visit: stclarehospice.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/ or call: 01279 773722.