LIONS' clubs from Cornwall, Devon and Somerset donated £42,650 to the soon to be opened Little Harbour children's hospice at Porthpean, St Austell.

The cheque was presented to Eddie Farwell, Children's Hospice South West co-founder and chief executive, at Little Harbour by Lions' district governor Neil Rutter and member Brenda Wood, together with club representatives from around the South West, including those from Bodmin, Callington, St Austell and Truro.

During a guided tour of the building Mr Farwell thanked the Lions for their efforts and explained just how crucial the need was for the hospice in Cornwall.

The money will be used to build a much-needed "Lions' Den" – a quiet family area where parents are able to stay at night and talk to members of staff should they wish.

District Lions' spokesman David Atkins said the funds raised by the clubs were matched by the Lions' Clubs' International Foundation. "Lions' clubs in the area have organised every kind of fundraising activity imaginable to raise the money – casino evenings, book sales, you name it," said Mr Atkins.

"We still have £9,000 in the kitty for fitting out the hospice, which we'll present before the end of the year when they need it."

Ms Wood said: "The Lions in the South West have had a long association with Children's Hospice South West since its infancy and we are proud to play our part in establishing their new hospice in Cornwall."

Little Harbour will provide individual children's bedrooms, accommodation for parents and siblings, along with play and therapy facilities, such as a messy play area, a Jacuzzi, multi-sensory room and a family kitchen and living room.

It will offer 24-hour palliative and end of life care, support for family members, as well as help, advice and support in bereavement when it opens in December.