NURSES at Nightingale House are getting behind the hospice’s 2021 campaign to build a hot air balloon.

In celebration of 25 years of patient care, the opportunity to sponsor a dedication or celebration on a panel of the exclusive balloon runs until the end of April, when the balloon will begin to be manufactured.

Clinical staff have been coming up with their own ideas of what they will be putting on their panels.

Some have decided on inspirational quotes, another is a celebration of the arrival of their new nephew, whereas some have decided that their pets should take centre stage.

Kay Ryan, day services lead said: "There is quite a buzz about the Build a Balloon campaign within the clinical team.

"It’s something we have never seen before and believe it’s a great way to help lift the community spirits at this very challenging time.

"I know it will mean a great deal to our supporters to be a part of something special and that will help fund the care that we provide."

The hospice has a long association with hot air balloon events in Llangollen and in recent years in Oswestry.

It is hoped that the balloon will take to the skies in the summer, but no launch date has been released due to current lockdown restrictions.

Community and event fundraiser for Nightingale House, Sarah Povey, said: "This is an incredibly exciting and unique campaign.

"To know that when we look up and see the Nightingale House balloon floating above us that we as a community have worked together to bring it to life will be a magnificent feeling.

"Build a Balloon has always been about representing our wonderful supporters and corporate partners and a celebration of the difference the hospice makes to those with life limiting illnesses within our communities or for those who use our hospice facilities on Chester Road."

If you would like to sponsor a Build A Balloon panel for Nightingale House, visit www.nightingalehouse.co.uk/event/build-a-balloon.