A charity that has supported those with life limiting illnesses for 31 years has held a special service to mark its anniversary.

Saint Francis Hospice, in Havering-atte-Bower, first opened on July 23 1984 to provide better care for people with terminal illnesses.

Since opening the charity has worked tirelessly with individuals and organisations to raise funds and oversee developments.

As years have passed it has added new features such as a home care service and bereavement counselling, as well as the addition of a dedicated children and families social worker.

In 2001 thanks to a donation of £400,000, the Hospice at Home service was formed, this service allowed for patients with advanced illnesses to be cared for in the comfort of their own homes.

Pam Court, the hospice’s CEO said “The hospice has grown from caring for around 200 people in 1984 to more than 4,000 people today with the majority of our patients supported in their own homes, which is where they want to be.”

The service marking its 31 years of providing care was led by the hospice’s retired chaplain, Graham Laut.

Joining the celebration were the Mayor and Mayoress of Havering, Cllr Brian Eagling and his wifeBunny, as well as hospice’s Trustees.

The hospice raises £7million each year to fund its work in Havering, Brentwood, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge and west Essex.

Saint Francis Hospice trustee Paul Gwinn, a Director of Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club, praised the fundraising team for its hard work raising the funds needed.