Hospice calls for marathon runners to help their cause (From Enfield Independent)

North London Hospice calls for Virgin London Marathon runners to help their cause

1:00pm Sunday 30th September 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

A hospice is urging London marathon runners to raise money for their charity.

The North London Hospice, which has been based in Finchley for more than 20 years, opened a new branch in Barrowell Green, Winchmore Hill, on September 13.

It is calling for Virgin London Marathon runners to raise donations for the cause when they race in April 2013.

The day centre, which offers specialist care to patients with terminal illnesses, is desperate to raise extra funds to enable it to open five days a week.

At this stage, the centre is open for one day a week – every Thursday – but the centre needs to raise £300,000 over the next three years to increase its opening hours.

Natalie Gordon, North London Hospice community fundraiser, said: “If you have your own place we would love you to join our team. The money you raise will allow the hospice to continue to provide essential care and support to the community.

“We have recently opened a new building in Enfield which at present provides day services to our patients and their carers one-day a week. Our aim is to open this five-days a week.

"Your marathon efforts could help us achieve this and improve the lives of many more people.”

A total of £3.8million was raised by the community to open the hospice in Enfield.