AN urgent fundraising appeal to cover the five-figure cost of a brand new boiler has been launched by Inverclyde's much-loved local hospice.

Ardgowan Hospice had to fork out £20,000 for a new boiler for the in-patient unit, where they offer compassionate end of life and respite care to those living with life-limiting illnesses.

With fundraising events cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the vital expense has arrived at a time where their income has dwindled and bosses hope that the Inverclyde community will rally round.

Their new director of care, Frances Downer, said: "This is my first major campaign I am seeing unfold at the hospice after I started just last month.

"It's a huge expense and sadly with no events upcoming, we will struggle to foot the bill.

"Covering the cost of this boiler will allow us to direct our own funds to important patient care, but your own financial wellbeing is just as important to us, so we'd ask you only donate if you are in a comfortable position to do so.

"I've already seen how well supported the hospice is by the community and thank our supporters in advance for their generous donations."

The existing boiler system in the building on Nelson Street has been in place for the past 15 years.

Management had to bring the installation forward by two weeks to allow them to continue supporting seriously ill patients.

Currently the hospice should be preparing for their annual ball, held each year in the Greenock Town Hall in March.

It usually sees about £30,000 being raised by supporters.

However, with the gap in the calendar, the cancer charity have launched a JustGiving campaign instead and hope social media supporters will get on board.

Raymond Bain, maintenance manager for Ardgowan, said: "Installing this boiler gives us a real peace of mind for at least the next 15 years.

"It's a huge undertaking but a necessary expense, we couldn't afford not to give the go ahead to getting the new system installed.

"Any funds raised above and beyond the £20,000 will be used towards additional maintenance costs, such as new patient showers, that will help us provide comfort to our patients for years to come."

To support the campaign, visit bit.ly/3arVCUQ.