AN Andover pensioner is saying his own personal thanks to the staff and carers at the Countess of Brecknock Hospice, by hosting a party in their honour at The Wolversdene Club tonight.

George Rumbold's wife Marion died from cancer at the hospice on 27 December 2002.

"She'd only been there for five or so weeks, but the staff couldn't do enough for her or for me," said 85-year-old George who lives in Artists Way. "We were supposed to hold the party as a thank you before my wife died, but she was just too poorly."

The invitation has been extended to doctors and staff from St Mary's Surgery in Church Close and to the pharmacists at Boots the chemist.

"The gentleman at the Wolversdene Club has let me have it for free, so I'll give the money I would have spent there back to the hospice," said George, who has already donated more than £200 of family money collected at the funeral.

"We're also having a raffle, so I hope to raise as much as I can for them."

Mr Rumbold believes not enough people know about the good work of the hospice and wants to publicly show his gratitude.

"I'd just like to raise awareness of how wonderful the place is, and let the staff know they do a brilliant job which is really appreciated," he said.