A SPECIAL Canvey Community Challenge has been launched to help fund a hospice designed to help support families for decades.

Havens Hospice announced a series of plans to raise cash for the new Fair Havens centre in Southend.

There will be a number of events on the island to help with the fundraising drive throughout May.

There will be a launch event on May 4 with a family day at The Lobster Smack on Canvey from 12pm until 5pm.

Businesses and islanders will be encouraged to donate from May 4 until May 18 during the fabulous fundraising event.

The event will finish with a grand finale event on May 18 with a family friendly walk along Canvey seawall.

Sally Bridger, from the hospice, has been sharing information about the event on Twitter.

She tweeted: “Look out for the Canvey Community Challenge banners around Canvey.

“Help Havens Hospices raise money for Fair Havens Life - your new hospice due to open in 2020.

“A big thank you to McDonald’s for supporting the Canvey Community Challenge.

“Ring 01702 220305 to find out more.”

The event on the island will help towards the new Fair Havens Hospice in Priory Crescent, Prittlewell.

The new Fair Havens, which is being built by Barnes Construction, is expected to be completed in February 2020.

Work began in October 2018, with dozens of construction crew members building the framework supported by more than £1 million worth of equipment.

The centre will incorporate 16 in-patient bedrooms, increased Day Hospice services, additional family support and beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds.

Following the backing of individuals, businesses and community organisations, Havens Hospice has raised £1,500,000 of the £2.5 million needed towards the new adult hospice for the community - as part of the £17m project. Earlier this week, Andy Smith, chief executive of Havens Hospice quit.

It follows a period of discussion about the leadership of the organisation. However the public are still behind the project.