HOSPICE staff did not allow a downpour to dampen summery thoughts of strawberries and cream, yesterday.

Nurses at Teesside Hospice, Middlesbrough, which needs £2,600 a day to stay fully functional, are banking on the temptation of traditional strawberry cream teas being served in the hospice gardens on June 18, to boost funds.

Admission is £2.50, with all proceeds going directly to Teesside Hospice Care Foundation. For tickets, contact the fundraising team on (01642) 355886.