Princess Alice Hospice is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a service of thanksgiving at Guildford Cathedral on Saturday, October 2.

The Esher-based hospice, which provides vital end-of-life care, is inviting supporters, staff and volunteers - past and present - and the wider community to the 2pm service.

Many developments have occurred within medicine and palliative care since it began in 1985, each and every year the Hospice has not simply kept up with the changes but has spearheaded best practices, including its nurse led respite care program, the first of its kind.

Its pioneering approach through education provision and the creation of the essential certificate in palliative care has seen the hospice improve care not just in our region but nationally, and internationally.

Jane Formby, a trustee since 1983, together with a small committee, has organised the service, which is set to be a "real reunion of friends".

A hospice spokesman said: "The hospice is honoured to welcome so many local dignitaries to the event and is particularly happy to have family members of those who made the hospice a reality all those years ago.

"Without the significant support of Geoffrey Gardner, Edwin Stevens and Virginia Waller the Hospice would not have been built and we would not have been able to support thousands of patients and their loved ones."

If you wish to attend the free service, call 01372 461855, or email 25years@pah.org.uk.