WHEN it comes to ‘national’ treasures, Les Bourgs Hospice is a jewel in Guernsey’s crown. Having served the needs of terminally-ill islanders and their families for two decades, the charity is now a much-loved and trusted friend of this community.

On Friday, the Guernsey Press was delighted to help launch the hospice’s 12-month countdown to rebuilding the centre at its original home in St Andrew’s. As committed media partners we have strongly supported the campaign since news of its £5m. fundraising target was first announced back in February this year.

We understand the hospice – which relies entirely on donations for its £2,000-a-day running costs and for the massive rebuild project at Andrew Mitchell House – is a cause close to readers’ hearts.

It is something that we, as a community newspaper, were sure that everyone would want to support because it has touched the lives of so many throughout the years. But with work now under way, and £2.9m. still to be found, the challenge is on to build and equip the hospice for the future.

Patients and staff, currently based at their temporary  home at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital, are hoping that Christmas 2011 will see  the start of a whole new era for this haven of care and support.

The signs are good that the scheme is progressing on schedule with the superstructure now up and the building taking shape. But fund-raisers say there is still a long way to go in this latest chapter of the Les Bourgs story.

Offering more space for day and in-patients, specially-equipped rooms with modern accommodation, and provision for relatives to visit their loved ones in peace and dignity, it is a  project that will bring welcome light and respite into the lives of many.

Offering a world-class service, it will be yet another facility that the island can be proud of – and a vital one, if the hospice is to meet the growing needs of our future Bailiwick population.

We know that times are just as hard for many islanders as well as charities.

But if you can play even a small part in helping to make this important community project happen, then please join the campaign to help rebuild Guernsey’s beloved Les Bourgs.

• Click here to download a form which can be used to make donations to the Les Bourgs rebuilding project.