The East Devon Day Hospice Appeal has reached the half way mark after a staggering rise in donations.

During the past three weeks the total has risen from £70,000 to £130,000 – the target is £250,000 to build, equip and run the first year of the day hospice, currently being built in Honiton.

Hospiscare appeal fundraiser Sarah Smith, said: “The recent massive increase in our fundraising total is staggering. As a local charity we are thrilled that the local community is supporting us with such enthusiasm. It’s testimony to the fact that this service is needed because we are getting such strong local support.

“We have still got a long way to achieve our £250,000 target and whilst our updated total is great news we are still urging people to continue to pull out all the stops. We cannot wait to open our new day hospice and provide care in East Devon closer to home.”

The new hospice, which is due to open in early 2015, will serve patients and their families across East Devon.

It is being built in partnership with Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth and Lympstone and Sidmouth Hospiscare as patients in all these areas will benefit from the new venture.

A number of local events has raised thousands, which have included the Art Extra auction, a supper by candlelight at St Paul’s Church, Honiton, and a pamper day at Sugar Beauty Salon, Honiton.

East Devon businesses have generously donated and Hospiscare is hoping this week that it will reach the half way mark of 15 local businesses joining the Tub Club, to raise a total of £15,000 to fund the hospice patient bathroom. Already Tub Club members have committed £6,000.

An appeal letter sent by Hospiscare raised £13,000 and has generated enquiries from people wanting to know how they can help. Also a trust has donated £25,000 towards the appeal.

Hospiscare’s next big fundraising event is A Jolly Good Jaunt, a five-or 13-mile walk from the Deer Park Hotel, Honiton, on October 5.

Walkers are being encouraged to wear tweed and will be treated to a free hog roast and a hot drink after the walk. Other fundraising events include a skydive at Dunkeswell.