VISITORS to a hospice are enjoying the latest computer games, thanks to a charitable donation.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Durham, has taken delivery of a Nintendo Wii, Wii Fit and plasma screen television, worth a total of £1,000.

The games were an instant hit with visitors including Colin Burrell, 56, from Pelton.

He said: "I really enjoy the ten-pin bowling game. I love bowling in real life but I seem to be much better at it when I’m playing on the Wii."

Pat Embleton, a therapy assistant at the hospice, said playing games on the Wii could help problems including balance and hand-eye co-ordination.

"Rather than engaging in repetitive exercises, playing virtual games such as golf, yoga and bowling make therapeutic activity into a fun and social experience and can even help people to re-engage with favourite hobbies that they may have had to give up due to their illness."

The equipment was donated by the St James’ Place Foundation.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice provides day and inpatient care for people with life-limiting illnesses. For more information, call 0191-386-1170.