Text Santa: Family thank Durham hospice for care and support

When Craig Dargue found a small mole on his back 18 months ago, he had it removed and carried on enjoying life with his young family.

But test results showed it was melanoma, a form of skin cancer, and within a year it spread quickly through his body.

In January he was told doctors couldn't do any more. He died three weeks later, at the age of 39.

He spent his last nine days at St Cuthbert's Hospice in Durham. His wife, Victoria, was able to stay with him.

His daughters Chloe, 16, and Isabelle, 8, could visit whenever they wanted.

Even their dog, Snoopy, was allowed to come and say goodbye.

The staff have been caring for patients in their final days for the last 25 years, and also for their loved ones after they've gone.

To do this, they need £1.2m of donations each year as well as the support of more than 350 volunteers.

The hospice is part of Help the Hospices, one of six charities being supported by ITV's Christmas appeal, Text Santa.