THE prospect of a children's hospice in Worcester is a step nearer after the fund-raising total hit the £500,000 mark.

The Acorns' Three Counties Appeal, launched in April, now stands at £538,246.

Last month, the appeal was boosted by an enormous £150,000, of which £62,068 was generated by community fund-raising.

Worcestershire campaigners notched up £51,071, fund-raisers in Herefordshire £1,909 and donations from companies and trusts made up the rest.

"The donations and pledges we've received in June make it our best month so far," said Fran Winterbourn, Acorns community fund-raising co-ordinator.

"The appeal fund is growing day by day but we still need to keep this momentum going to raise the £4m to secure the future of the new hospice and ensure that it opens in 2004 as planned."

Project manager Mike Cartledge revealed that a fund-raising totaliser, in the shape of a tree, had been put up on the Bath Road site.

"We wanted to put something on site so people can see for themselves the tremendous progress being made," he said.

The tree, made by City Signs of Barbourne, indicates the key stages along the fund-raising path.

The charity's coffers will be further boosted now the Evening News has joined forces with Worcester Rugby Club to stage a summer ball.

The black-tie event is being held at the Sixways site on Saturday, July 27.

Tickets, price £35 are available from Kathy Leather at the rugby club on 01905 459326.