YOUNG cancer sufferers will get double the services and support after two hospices linked their buildings.

Naomi House children’s hospice and Jacksplace hospice for young adults have been joined together by a new bridge, allowing staff, youngsters and equipment to move between the two buildings in all weathers.

The walkway is part of the £4m Caterpillar Appeal and refurbishment project to extend Naomi House in Sutton Scotney by September, bringing it new family accommodation, bedrooms, living spaces and play areas and flexible spaces for music therapy and arts and crafts.

Charity patron ITV newsreader Alastair Stewart, pictured, helped to smash down the last section of wall separating the hospices.

He said: “This really is a magical moment for us because Jacksplace and Naomi House are both part of the same wonderful dream of making things better for people who are having a really tough time of it.”

The charity still needs more than £800,000 towards the Caterpillar Appeal.

For more information or to donate, visit naomihouse.org.uk.