A CHRISTMAS gift appeal at a Kinver retirement complex has helped to spread a little festive cheer to patients and families at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice.

Bosses at leading retirement house builder McCarthy and Stone say they have been overwhelmed by the generosity shown by local residents and staff following the appeal at Lowestone Court in Stone Lane.

James Carey, sales executive at McCarthy and Stone, said: “Showing our support for the local community is incredibly important to all of us at Lowestone Court, and there is no other time in the year when this is more crucial than at Christmas.

"St Mary’s Hospice is very close to the hearts of so many people across the region, and it does such a fantastic job all year round, so we were thrilled to be able to help make a difference with the Gift Appeal.

"We are thankful for the generosity of all those who donated and hope the presents are well-received.”

Laura Rollason, community fundraiser at the hospice which provides care for patients from across Birmingham and Sandwell coping with a terminal illness, added: “We are very grateful to McCarthy and Stone for its support this Christmas, and for rallying the local community to provide gifts while also helping raise awareness of the hospice.

"This can be a particularly difficult time of year for those under our care and their families; and the generosity and goodwill of others really does help.”