A MOTORCYCLE group has raised the funds for a vital piece of equipment for a children’s hospice they support.

Boundary 500 Motorcycle Group donated the £600 needed for Zoe’s Place to purchase a portable suction machine which helps to enhance the care and comfort of sick babies.

Brian Laverick, a retired police officer and founder of the group, said: “Our members work tirelessly at raising money for our two charities the Great North Air Ambulance and Zoë's Baby Hospice. This piece of equipment was needed by the hospice, we had the money and it is really satisfying that all our hard work and effort does materialise into purchases such as this.”

Clare Garbutt, deputy head of nursing at the hospice, said: “We are so grateful to the members of the Boundary 500. They raise a tremendous amount of money for us and yet again they have come up trumps. The equipment will enhance the care and comfort of our babies and that is priceless.”