Sue Ryder Care at Manorlands managed to reduce its deficit by £21,094 in 2002, but is still urging people to support fundraising events.

In 2001 spending was £66,877 more than income, but in 2002 the amount fell to 45,783, according to figures revealed at Monday night's annual general meeting.

The charity - which helped care for 512 different patients throughout 2002 - is grateful for the help and donations received from its supporters.

It costs £4,200 to fund the charity's in-patient, community, day and bereavement care for one day.

The amount of income generated by fundraising, gifts and donations increased from £381,092 in 2001 to £436,016 in 2002, and 2002 saw £56,000 raised by support groups.

Care centre manager Sue Hesse said: "It has been another challenging year, with staff changes within the hospice, but the team is stronger for the bringing in of new ideas and people who can view familiar situations in different ways and come up with new solutions.

"Sue Ryder Care centrally is putting key people into place who will increase the fund raising side by national publicity to raise awareness, and by having people with the expertise to tap into corporate and trust fund raising opportunities.

"At a hospice level the fund raising team continue to work hard."

She concluded: "Finally I would like to thank everyone who gives to Manorlands, whether that be money, time or effort.

"The support groups who work tirelessly for us and the hundreds of volunteers without whom we could not manage, who give freely of their time and do the less glamourous but no less important jobs such as reception or tea making."

The auditors, support groups, volunteers and businesses were thanked for their help and fund-raiser Chris Bown (pictured) highlighted forthcoming fundraising events.

She reported that there would be a Bront Vintage gathering at Haworth Road in Cullingworth on May 17 and 18.

There will also be a sunflower ball at the Five Flags Hotel, costing £30 a ticket.

The Go Yellow and Sunflower campaign will take place in June, with highlights being afternoon tea on June 20 and the McDonald's Drive Thru challenge on June 21.

Other events are being planned for the rest of the year. Further details are available from Chris Bown on 01535 640161.

l Fundraisers at Manorlands say there are a handful of places left on a trip to Fleetwood this summer.

The trip to the Lancashire seaside town will take place from June 27-29, and will include a fundraising dance at the Marine Hall on the first night.

The cost is £75 and more details can be obtained by phoning fundraiser David Gott on 01274 573752.