The two organisations stayed in touch following last year’s involvement and Hospice staff were thrilled when Utility Alliance bosses approached them again about formally becoming a Patron.

Corporate Fundraiser Greg Hildreth said “This is great news and such a generous pledge of support. We already have a great relationship with Utility Alliance and are looking forward to developing this over the coming year. We have had several meetings and there are already some great fundraising ideas being discussed in addition to the pledged amount of money.”

The two prominent local organisations are looking to officially launch this partnership as part of Purple Week, a themed week raising funds and awareness for local Hospice care running from 24-30 March. During this week Utility Alliance, located on Hartlepool Marina, will be lighting their entire building purple.

Ian Willis, PR & Marketing Manager at Utility Alliance, said: “As a local business it is important that we put something back into the community, and we are delighted to be in a position to be able to help out Alice House Hospice.

“Everyone in Hartlepool has a connection with the Hospice, and all of the staff and volunteers within the organisation deserve a lot of credit for the amount of hard work they put in each year to enable them to provide such a top class level of service to patients and their families.

“As well as becoming a Patron, we also look forward to getting involved with the various fundraisers Greg and the team organise throughout the year.”