GREAT Oaks have been given an extra helping hand – both monetary and physically – by two local organisations.

Proceeds from the Yorkley Gallop, held in October by the Forest of Dean Athletics Club (FODAC), went to the Coleford-based charity.

Race director Jacqui Wynds and club treasurer Wendy Lawrence of FODAC presented a cheque for £500 to Ceri Evans from Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice.

Meanwhile Mitchel­dean-based power management company, Eaton, rolled up their sleeves to help out in the garden.

Volunteers mended garden furniture, cleared paths, weeded and pruned and gave six large benches a much-needed sand down and coat of varnish.

“The work the hospice does has a tremendous impact on the community and the chance to offer something back is one we jumped at. The feedback we received from our work was tremendous and made it all worthwhile,” said Dawn Morgan, Eaton’s marketing executive.

Daphne Rhodes, volunteer services coordinator at Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice, added: “We rely heavily on volunteers to help make this a pleasant environment for patients and to improve their quality of life. We were, therefore, delighted when Eaton offered to come and spend some time with us. It was a pleasure to have them here and patients, staff and visitors alike have enjoyed the gardens and the benches, which look as good as new.”