A number of businesses are coming together to raise £100,000 for a children's hospice.

More than 80 businesses from across East London and Essex have joined the Haven House Children's Hospice 100 club - a group of companies committed to raising funds for specialist care and support for the hospice.

The Woodford-based hospice 100 club group, spearheaded by hospice patron and chairman of Matchroom Sport Barry Hearn, met for the first time to network and mingle on March 27.

Mr Heart said: "How often do we say we’re too busy to involve ourselves in initiatives like this? But partnership working with charities like Haven House is a great leveller and opens our eyes to situations and experiences that can be uplifting and life-changing.

"By being a member of the 100 Club you are demonstrating your company’s commitment to the children supported by Haven House and the vital work done by the team here."

The 100 Club is a community of like-minded organisations that will work together to inspire, support and encourage each other in their businesses, whilst pledging to achieve an annual fundraising goal of £1,000 each for Haven House.

Chief executive at the hospice Mike Palfreman said: "Seeing so many people come together this evening for Haven House has been extremely encouraging.

"We would like to thank those who have already pledged their support and we hope that more business leaders will share our vision of a community where every child and young person living with a life-limiting illness gets the care they need, want and deserve.

"We’re looking for more local organisations to be part of this exciting new initiative and enjoy the exclusive benefits of forging a partnership with their local hospice."

Businesses interested in joining the 100 Club should contact Amy Bramble at amybramble@havenhouse.org.uk or call 07557 036054 or to find out more, visit: www.havenhouse.org.uk/100-club.