A CHILDREN'S hospice charity is calling for a town's residents, schools, churches and businesses to help in its challenge to raise £5000 for a team of outreach nurses.

Helen and Douglas House has launched the ‘Big Town Challenge’ to get the Marlow community together in order to meet the total by March next year.

Since launching the scheme, the charity – which has a shop on Spittal Street - has received backing from the likes of Harleyford Golf Club and Natwest.

And the project got off to a flying start when Marlow Bottom resident Sandie Brown pulled in £615 after organising a charity lunch with friends.

Sandie, who has three children and five grandchildren, is a keen supporter of the local children’s hospice.

She said: “Until we can save the lives of children currently deemed terminal, we can at least help to create memories for the parents and siblings that will sustain them as they eventually rebuild their lives.”

The £5000 target will pay for a team of outreach nurses to visit the homes of terminally ill children and those with life-shortening conditions.

Business along Marlow High Street are showing support, with Beehive Treats, The Children’s Shoe Company, Fullard Fine Jewellery, Sunrise, Natwest and M&Co being the first to take collection tins.

To find out how to get involved, contact Sue Barnes sbarnes@helenanddouglas.org.uk or calling 01628 566585.