FRIENDS and colleagues of an architect who died from cancer are backing the hospice fund-raising campaign he launched.

People who knew Darlington architect Rob Niven have donated £3,500 to the St Teresa's Hospice appeal since his death earlier this month.

The hospice is hoping to raise £250,000 a year to open and run a full-time care unit.

In the last days of his life, Mr Niven, who suffered from lung cancer, backed the hospice campaign and called for businesses in the town to make small, regular donations to the hospice.

Since then, one anonymous donor has given £5,000 to the campaign and thousands more has been donated by individuals and companies.

A spokeswoman for the hospice said: "Rob has inspired a lot of people.

"He knew a lot of people, both socially and through his business, and we are delighted with the response."

The hospice is looking for businesses to sponsor a bed for a year in the new unit.

The spokeswoman said: "If a group of car dealers or solicitors would come forward and club together to pay for one of the beds it would make a huge difference."

There are also plans for collection boxes for people to put in spare change. A sponsor is being sought to back this scheme.

The Northern Echo is supporting the Appeal.

Anyone wanting to help can contact Craig Linton on (01325) 254319 or e-mail cldarlington-hospice.org.uk