THE Paul Sartori Foundation has received a financial boost to their campaign to buy a new custom-built van, thanks to the Western Telegraph and the Gannett Foundation.

Judith Williams and Phil Thompson, both from the charity, were presented with a cheque for £5,000 by editor, Steve Adams, on behalf of the Gannett, owners of the Western Telegraph.

The grant was donated to the charity, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, to put towards the cost of a new delivery van.

Thanks to the donation, the charity has now raised the required £24,000.

The Paul Sartori Foundation offers hospice at home services to people living with life-limiting illness and the van is critical to their service.

Mr Thompson, who is the chairman of the board, said: “This very kind donation of £5,000 will enable Paul Sartori Hospice at Home to supply 250 hours of care in the Pembrokeshire community.”

Ms Williams, funding and project coordinator, said: ““We are at the point where our current van is a bit creaky. We are in a great position at the start of the year thanks to the donation and can now go ahead and purchase the new one.”

The new van, which will be delivered in the summer, will have to be specially fitted out before it can be used. It will come with a heavy-duty lift and will be internally lined with fibreglass so that it is easier to clean and maintain.

The existing van, called “Tom’s Truck donated by Val Harries”, will still be used for picking up donations, and delivery of equipment across the county.

Steve, who was treated to a guided tour of the Paul Sartori premises at Winch Lane in Haverfordwest, said: “I’m delighted to be able to present this cheque to the Foundation.

“The Paul Sartori Foundation is a fantastic charity which provides a vital service to people in our community.”

“It can really make such a difference to people at the most difficult time of their lives.

“The standard of care and the facilities they provide are top quality, and they are fully deserving of this donation.”