A HOSPICE has secured a drinks licence and is extending its cafe opening hours to boost the income it needs to provide care.

Willow Burn Hospice in Lanchester will be opening its onsite cafe on Saturdays and Sundays.

From July 3, the Willows Café will be open between 10am to 2.30pm every Saturday, as well as Monday to Friday, for breakfasts, lunches, light snacks, cakes and refreshments. Sunday opening will follow later in the summer.

The catering team are currently recruiting new volunteers to assist during the weekend service and would love to hear from anyone who would like to help.

Willow Burn chairman Paul Jackson said: “As well, developing the Willows Café, the hospice has beautiful, landscaped gardens, perfect for health and wellness workshops, a large multi-purpose day centre, counselling and treatment rooms, all of which are available for private hire.”