People were given tours of Agape House as the hospice threw its doors open for Palliative Care Month.

Medical programme manager Norma Smith and Health Minister Michael Scott both made brief speeches, while visitors were told about the services on offer at the facility, Bermuda's only in-patient hospice. Mrs. Smith praised the efforts of staff in supporting hundreds of terminally ill patients and their families since Agape House opened 16 years ago.

Mr. Scott said: "It's my great privilege as Minister to commend you and thank you all for the services you provide."

The 12-bed property, at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, offers physical, psychological, social, and spiritual care in what is described as a homelike, relaxed and supportive environment.