A HOSPICE has had to postpone one of its biggest fundraising events of the year.

St Teresa's Hospice has been due to hold its Bark in the Park event at South Park, Darlington, on Sunday, April 19.

It has decided to postpone the dog walk, which raised £10,000 for the hospice last year, because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

It hopes to reschedule it for September.

Hospice chief executive Jane Bradshaw said: “We have been closely monitoring the escalating coronavirus situation and have also taken advice from the Darlington Borough Council Events Team.

“For everyone’s safety we feel that it is only right that we do not go ahead and we will therefore be postponing, with September 6 pencilled in as the new date. Please mark the date in your diary and keep checking www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk for updates.”

The hospice, which provides free day, in-patient and community care for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families in Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire, is growing increasingly concerned about the impact of the coronavirus on its fundraising.

It needs to raise £3m a year.

But the pandemic is threatening its life-blood by limiting events and its ability to attract vital donations. Countless events have already been postponed or cancelled leaving hospice finances under increasing pressure.

It has also now shut all of its charity shops, which are another important source of income.

The hospice has suspended day hospice services to limit access to the building in order to protect the workforce and in-patients.

It has also launched an online appeal and is asking members of the public to donate.

Since the Hug to St Teresa's appeal launched, it has raised more than £1,200.

The charity said: "Please, consider giving a gift to St Teresa's Hospice today to help us get through this difficult time, and to make sure those who need care and support can continue to access it.

"Send us a virtual hug (or elbow bump!) to show your support if everyone gave just £5 each it would make a massive difference to those in need.

"All donations will be greatly appreciated, and every penny will be spent locally on vital palliative and end of life care and support."

Anyone wanting to help the hospice can support the current appeal by sending a #hugtoStTeresas and by using the Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/HugToStTs.