ACORNS' new children's hospice is on schedule to open in March, now contractors have finished the building.

After 14 months on site, the contractors have now handed over the building in Worcester to Acorns. This means that the charity is now totally responsible for the completion of the project, and the promise of residential care for some 250 seriously ill children in the three counties including Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

"For everyone involved this is a hugely exciting time," said Acorns' chief executive. "Our care team is now in the process of turning this beautiful building into a warm, welcoming, home-from-home environment in readiness for the arrival of the first children and families.

Curtains can now be hung, pictures put on the walls and cupboards crammed with games and toys. "It's a fantastic achievement to have got this far and is due, in no small part, to the wonderful support that people have given us since we launched our fundraising appeal back in April 2001.

Their support has been unstinting and means so much to the local children and families who will benefit from the specialist palliative care that the new hospice will provide alongside expanding our services in the community."

In the weeks leading up to the hospice opening, volunteers, donors and supporters will be invited to see what they have helped to create first hand. In February families will make short visits so they can get used to the building and really put the hospice through its paces - beds will be jumped on, hoists used for the first time, and the kitchen will provide lunches and snacks.

On March 1st most of the 40-strong nursing and care team will arrive for two weeks' training and induction. On March 14th the first children and families will arrive for respite, emergency and terminal care.

Then the hospice will be full of young people and the unique atmosphere of Acorns will fill the building." said Mr Overton. Another £250,000 is still needed to complete the fitting out and with running costs of £4,000 a day so more funds are urgently needed. Anyone who can help is urged to contact Acorns on 01386 554848 or visit www.acorns.org.uk.