A LOCAL children's charity is reeling at the cost of the foot-and-mouth crisis to its fund-raising.
Acorns Children's Hospice has seen dozens of events cancelled, potentially depriving the organisation of tens of thousands of pounds.
The charity, which cares for children with life-limiting illnesses, currently has two hospices, in Birmingham and Walsall.
It is planning to build a third in Worcester.
But running the charity costs £3.5m a year.
"Some of our most loyal supporters come from the farming community or have businesses in rural areas, many living with the threat of losing their livelihoods," said Fran Winterbourn, fund-raising co-ordinator in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
"We send them our sympathy as we, too, are now facing difficulties."
Acorns is appealing for fund-raisers living outside the affected areas, to help.
Anyone who wants to help organise a fund-raising activity can call 01905 724040.
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