IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas – and now supporters of Winchester Hospice have the opportunity to buy, or donate towards, some truly special presents that will make a lasting difference to patients.

Winchester Hospice has partnered with EMA Fundraising to create a virtual Christmas tree – and are hoping that supporters will make the charity’s Christmas wishes come true by donating towards the presents that are under our festive creation.

There are 22 gifts in all – and each present represents an item or set of items that will be included in the hospice if the charity can raise the necessary funds.

The virtual and interactive Christmas tree went ‘live’ on November 16 – and donations have started coming in. There is plenty of time for people to contribute as the Christmas tree will be open for donations until midnight on December 31.

Dr Lara Alloway, Winchester Hospice trustee, palliative consultant and chief medical officer for Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has stopped us from doing a lot of events so our charity team have come up with innovative ways to keep the fundraising wheels turning as we strive to reach the £3.7million target to get the hospice open next summer.

“We hope that our supporters like the idea of donating towards the presents under our virtual Christmas tree fundraiser.

“Every pound counts and every donation will help us to purchase these important items which will make such a difference to the quality of care and the environment that we can provide for patients and their families in the hospice.

“Thank you to everyone who helps us purchase as many of the presents as possible. Every gift that is bought brings us closer to our fundraising target.”

To make a donation to the virtual Christmas tree fundraiser, go to winchesterhospice.com/our-virtual-christmas-tree