KIND-hearted members of a city theatre group have raised thousands of pounds for a hospice in memory of their friend.

Kay’s Theatre Group, based in Worcester, raised a tremendous £3,500 for St Richard's Hospice – which cared for former member Jenny Hall-Dixon, who suffered with cancer.

The group raised the money through performances of its pantomime Mother Goose earlier this year, and through bag packing at Tesco in St Peter's, Worcester.

Cath Skyrme, vice chairman of Kay’s Theatre Group, said: "St Richard’s Hospice is a charity which is very close to our hearts.

"The recent tour we had has only confirmed to us that the staff – both paid and voluntary – go above and beyond to help those going through the most testing and difficult time of their lives."

The group also supported Ms Hall-Dixon's sister-in-law Becky Fawkes, who was raising money for the hospice by running the London Marathon. And the committee also donated £140.

Ria Simons, community fundraiser at St Richard’s, said: "We are extremely grateful for the Kay’s group donation towards the cost of our care.

"Such kindness is heart-warming and always appreciated. Thank you to all who gave so generously."

St Richard’s Hospice provides free specialist palliative care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and supports their loved ones.

Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,000 patients and family members in Worcestershire.

Kay's is the city's longest-standing amateur theatre group.

For more information visit strichards.org.uk and to find out about Kay's visit kaystheatregroup.co.uk