THE Ayrshire Hospice marked its 30th anniversary, paying tribute to its dedicated team and fundraising supporters.

Employed and voluntary staff celebrated the milestone at the hospice’s dropin cafe on February 15.

The anniversary also saw the creation of a memory tree in the hospice for people to pay tribute to loved ones.

The work of the hospice has touched many lives throughout Ayrshire since it opened in 1989.

Ayrshire Hospice chief executive, Mandy Yule, said: “As we mark our 30th year, our message to the wonderful people of Ayrshire is, thank you. We wouldn’t be able to deliver the level of care we do if it wasn’t for your support.

“We have an incredible group of volunteers and fundraisers across Ayrshire – some of whom have given their time for over 30 years – and without their efforts, the hospice simply wouldn’t be here. Because of your efforts we have access to some of the best palliative care treatments available allowing us to give our patients comfort and quality of life.“ A special memory tree was part of a roadshow at Ayr Central Shopping Centre last week.

Mandy explained:“The memory tree has given people the chance to leave their own memories of loved ones or a message for the hospice. The heartfelt messages that have been left really capture the true meaning of hospice care and the support we have been able to provide our patients and their families with over the last 30 years.

It has been very touching.”

The tree will now grow as part of an anniversary exhibition.