ANOTHER piece of a jigsaw that is measuring the final countdown to a Derbyshire hospice reaching its fund-raising target has been placed.

Brett Critchley, managing director of Orchid Information Technology, in Pride Park, was invited along to Treetops Hospice to place the piece. It marks the progress of Treetops Hospice's Ripple Appeal's final challenge, launched in March to raise £300,000 to start building a day care centre at the Risley hospice.

Kate Shaw and Lily Grant, from the Ripple Appeal fund-raising team, appealed to the public to support them in their efforts.

Mrs Shaw said: "Orchid IT has really got behind its local hospice and its support over the last 16 months has been amazing. The staff have jumped out of a plane for the appeal, they have run in half-marathons and 10k races, they have organised and taken part in football tournaments. They have been up for all challenges we have thrown at them."

Brett Critchley, managing director at Orchid, said: "It is good to be invited back to Treetops Hospice. It reminds you of why Orchid IT is supporting this worthwhile charity".

For more information, or to get involved, call 0115 9491264 or e-mail to kshaw@treetopshospice.org.uk.