An organisation which has been raising funds for St Raphael’s Hospices for 25 years is closing.

The League of Friends has raised £86,000 over the years for the hospice by holding race nights, quizzes and boot sales.

Barry Wallis, 80, the chairman of the League of Friends said: "We’ve lost so many committee members through death and it’s so hard to commit more."

However, he said the retiring treasurer will continue to hold quiz nights in aid of the hospice.

Keith Witham, director of fundraising at St Raphael's Hospice said: "The League of Friends is a separate charity, and many of its supporters have been involved for more than 25 years since before the hospice opened.

"Their decision to disband the committee is sad, but not unexpected. We have thanked them for the terrific support they have given to the hospice, but are delighted that most of the fundraising will continue by the members as individuals.

"We have agreed that the funds raised will continue to support our nurse bursery programme for training, and to pay for the patients newspapers, which is much appreciated.

"Looking to the future, St Raphael's now has a network of ten Community Local Supporter Groups based throughout the boroughs of Sutton and Merton.

"Each local gropup is raising funds and awareness of the work of the hospice, and anyone who is interested in supporting their local group should contact Geoff Hill on 020 8644 3857 for more details."

Geoff Hill the community fundraiser said they are particularly looking for more volunteers in the Carshalton area.

In the anniversary of the hospice's 25th year the Sutton and Wimbledon Guardians have launched the Give Your Quid campaign to earn much needed funds for the hospice.

To donate visit: justgiving.com/giveyourquidappeal.