THERE are few people in north Essex who have not had contact with St Helena Hospice.

And there are few who have not valued its support in the time of most need.

The hospice is held in the highest regard and its dedicated and compassionate staff are spoken of in the highest terms.

The support for the hospice manifests itself through the outpouring of appreciation and through the fundraising which allows the service to function.

The hospice, for its part, continues to strive to extend its service, offering support in patients’ homes and counselling to their loved ones.

However, something has gone awry.

The logic of selling the hospice day centre in Clacton is clear. It will generate funds to underpin its work and there has been a promise all day centre services will be provided elsewhere.

But what about the people who have funded the service year after year?

Where was the discussion? The explanation? The respect?

Fundraisers have loyally supported the hospice for years, standing in the rain and snow on occasions to collect coppers, and they deserve to be consulted on plans for the future.

We don’t doubt the wages as revealed by the Charity Commission are justified but they do illustrate the money within the hospice.

An organisation of that size might well argue to get the best staff, good wages must be offered.

But it must also appreciate the debt it owes to the people who have served them simply for the love it.