VOLUNTEERS at Kemp Hospice have praised its stimulating atmosphere and professional care - and highlighted the need for a bigger base.

Unpaid workers fill a number of roles for the Sutton Park Road centre, including transporting patients, helping with odd jobs, or just listening.

Mike Cockerton, who spends three days a month at the hospice, said he drew "great satisfaction" from volunteering.

"It's heartening to see people cheering up. You see amazing changes in people's attitude.

"When they first come in they've probably had a bad diagnosis and they are down and going through some sort of a crisis.

"But people come in here and it's brilliant. There's no compulsion to take part in anything but being with people in a similar position takes their mind off their problems."

Mr Cockerton said a range of activities is on offer but the highlight of many people's day is sitting around the table at lunch.

"It's absolutely brilliant, the most sociable time and what stands out is the amount of laughter.

"But there's just no room. The new centre will accommodate more people in an easier way."

The planned new £2.2 million purpose-built home, due to be finished by 2004, will include a day care centre for up to 18 patients. The present site can accommodate 12.

More space will be devoted to occupational and physiotherapy, as well as a range of complementary therapies, and there will be more quiet rooms for patients to talk.

"All you really do is sit and listen. It gives patients another outlet for their feelings," added Mr Cockerton.

Marguerite Clarke, who helps out once or twice a month, said: "You don't go home from here feeling down. It's really uplifting.

"But we need a bigger place so more people can benefit."