A DORSET children’s hospice has received a welcome boost from the Dorchester Tourist Information Centre (TIC).

The Antelope Walk TIC presented Julia’s House with a cheque for £385 after arranging a host of fundraising activities including an in-store treasure hunt and a Christmas quiz, which customers to the Dorchester office could take part in.

The treasure hunt took place on Christmas Cracker Night on December 5 and staff were helped by Julia’s House volunteers.

Visitors to the TIC on the night could choose a Dorset landmark and win prizes. The Christmas quiz was put together by TIC staff and cost £1 to enter and ran from December 1 to January 3.

Caroline Morrish-Banham, Dorchester Tourist Information Centre manager, said: “Throughout the year we help raise money for local charities.

“We are delighted with the figure we have raised for Julia’s House.

“We would like to thank all the many local businesses and suppliers for their generosity in supplying such fabulous prizes.

“We would also like to thank our many customers for their loyal support.”

Lin Hudswell, Julia’s House community fundraising manager said: “We are delighted that the Dorchester Tourist Information Centre team chose Julia’s House.

“Without the support of local communities and businesses our service would not exist.

“We rely on fundraising and donations for more than 90 per cent of the income we need to run our service.

“I would like to thank the staff for their part in helping local families with life-limited children.”

West Dorset District Council runs four tourist information centres in Dorchester, Sherborne, Bridport and Lyme Regis.