COMEDIANS, footballers, radio presenters and stars of the entertainment world have come together to wish the East Lancashire Hospice a happy 35th birthday.

Among the famous faces were former Blackburn Rovers footballer Colin Hendry, Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas, Liberty X singer Kevin Simm and comedian and actor John Thomson.

In a special video made for the birthday celebrations, Jamie Lomas said: "I just wanted to wish the East Lancs Hospice a very happy birthday."

Blowing a kiss to the camera, he added: "I'm sending you my love."

BBC Radio Lancashire presenter Stephen Lowe said: "I'll tell you what is really amazing - the work that goes on at the East Lancashire hospice.

"Keep up the good work, you are officially amazing."

As well as the video, the hospice has a summer of events planned to celebrate its anniversary.

The centre, which officially turned 35 on June 21, was established thanks to the work of anaesthetist Dr Merton Seigleman who had a vision to provide pain free and dignified care for patients in their final stages of life.

The idea of a hospice was supported by people in the area and money started pouring in as the general public showed their support.

Fundraisers managed to reach the £700,000 needed to build the hospice over several years and on 12th May 1983 the foundation stone for the brand new purpose-built East Lancashire Hospice, a ten-bedded Inpatient Unit.

And then on the 21st June 1984, the East Lancashire Hospice first opened its doors to patients and their families from Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.

Lyn Stevenson, Chief Executive of the hospice, said: “The hospice was built by the community, for the community and we are proud that we continue to be here to provide a special way of caring 35 years on.”

Chair of the Trustees, Graham Parr said, “On behalf of everyone at East Lancashire Hospice, I would like to say a huge thank you to all our supporters who help us to provide care which our patients and their families tell us is priceless, we couldn’t do it without you”