AN award-winning hospice has appointed a new director as it celebrates its 40th birthday.

Farleigh Hospice provides hospice care, free of charge, to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across mid-Essex.

The charity has recently appointed a new director of care.

Alison Stevens, Farleigh’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted to welcome Ellie Miller to Farleigh Hospice as our new director of care.

“Ellie brings with her a wealth of valuable knowledge and experience, gained from a 30 year career in nursing and working in a similar role in hospice care for almost five years.

“She joins Farleigh at an exciting time, as we build on four decades of providing hospice care to deliver on our ambitious strategy for the next four years and beyond.”

Ellie says was attracted to the role as she will be contributing to the impact Farleigh’s care has on her community.

She added: “I will be leading the teams responsible for the delivery of excellent palliative and supportive care to our patients and their families in mid-Essex.”

Ellie’s appointment comes as Farleigh joins more than 200 hospices across the UK to support Hospice Care Week from October 10 to October 14.