ACTRESS Jessie Wallace is backing Little Havens children's hospice's tenth anniversary appeal.

The former soap star, now in ITV drama, Wild at Heart, is a patron of the Thundersley hospice and is urging local people to bake, sell or eat cakes at fundraising parties to mark the anniversary on July 13. She said: "I have had the chance to share nearly half the Little Havens' journey as a patron.

"I have witnessed first hand the wonderful care and love the team offers families in such difficult times.

"Please do all that you can to ensure it is able to celebrate many more birthdays over the years."

Hospice spokesman Amy Dearing urged supporters to join in the celebrations.

The Essex Fire Mus-eum in Grays is a big supporter and has already pledged to hold a special event .

To join in the fun, contact the fundraising team on 01702 220305, e-mail dbyrne@havens hospices.org.uk, or visit www.littlehavens.org.uk