SUPPORTERS of St Helena Hospice raised a toast and tucked into tea when celebrated its 30th anniversary.

About 200 guests attended Sunday’s special event at Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium.

The event was a chance for the hospice, based in Highwoods, Colchester, to thank its staff, volunteers and supporters for their hard work and dedication over the past 30 years.

Guests heard from hospice chief executive Mark Jarman- Howe, chairman of trustees Professor Peter Vergo and president of the hospice, the Bishop of Colchester the Rt Rev Roger Morris.

Mr Jarman-Howe said: “The afternoon tea was a real success, it was such a pleasure to have so many people from the community join us to help celebrate the hospice’s 30th year.”

A raffle raised £745 and donated prizes included tickets to visit Bourne Mill, tickets for entry to Layer Marney Tower, a £50 voucher for Bill’s restaurant in Colchester and tickets to the Mercury Theatre.