THE Chief Constable of Sussex Police Giles York was joined by 25 guests at a private lunch at Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice.

Guests included the High Sheriff of West Sussex Lady Emma Barnard and best- selling crime writer Peter James as well as staff from Sussex Police and hospice care and fundraising teams.

The Chief Constable chose Chestnut Tree House, near Arundel, as his charity of the year for 2017.

Throughout the year, he and other members of Sussex Police have thrown themselves into raising funds and awareness for it.

They have organised and taken part in a wide range of activities across Sussex, from “Bag it and Give” and “Get Festive” to volunteering days and events.

After Chief Con York welcomed guests and talked about why he is supporting the charity, Linda Perry, director of children’s services at Chestnut Tree House, thanked him for his support.

Linda Perry said: “We were delighted when Chief Constable Giles York chose Chestnut Tree House as his charity of the year for 2017 and are extremely grateful for all the work Sussex Police have done since then.

“In addition to spreading the word about the work we do, they have raised funds by putting on a range of events, and have also organised activity days for the children, which means so much to the families involved.

“It costs more than £3.5 million each year to pay for all of our specialist care services.

“Without the support of individuals and organisations in the area it would not be possible for us to continue to help so many children and families.

“We would all like to thank Giles York and everyone at Sussex Police for their invaluable help this year.”

Linda also thanked Luella Bubloz at Sussex Police for all her help organising the activity days and Superintendent James Collis for his work with the charity committee, presenting them with flowers and a card from the children.

Linda invited guests to attend a tour of the house with some of the fundraising team.

Chief Con York said, “I am delighted to be supporting Chestnut Tree House and am so proud of my colleagues for getting behind me and helping to raise vital funds and awareness for this wonderful charity.

“Members of my team have done a variety of things over the last few months, including organising activity days for the children, a conker-themed April Fool’s Day prank, a golf day, and most recently a 24-hour park run.

“The work Chestnut Tree House does – both at the hospice and out in the community – is inspiring and makes such a difference to so many people’s lives.

One of the things that struck me when I first visited is what a heart-warming, happy place it is.”