Weston Hospicecare has sold the former Mooseheart hotel in Winscombe so it can focus on caring for people in their own homes.

Weston Mercury: Mooseheart Winscombe.Mooseheart Winscombe. (Image: Archant)

The charity acquired the building in July 2014 with the view to expanding and developing its services for people with life-limiting conditions and their families.

In 2015, the hospice held a detailed consultation with staff, volunteers and supporters, which revealed people would appreciate more focus on care at home, rather than a bigger building with more beds.

The charity, which is based in Uphill, was also concerned a location outside of Weston would lead to a loss of local support.

As a result of the consultation, Weston Hospicecare put the Moosheart building back on the market.

Weston Mercury: Mooseheart Winscombe.Mooseheart Winscombe. (Image: Archant)

The building’s sale has now been completed, although the buyer has asked for details of the transaction to remain confidential at this time.

Chair of trustees Judi Driscoll said: “We listened to our staff and supporters and have now completed the sale of the old Mooseheart hotel.

“At the request of the purchaser all details of the sale will remain confidential.

“From our Uphill base we will continue to care for terminally ill people in the community, in our day hospice, the wellbeing centre and our 10-bed in-patient unit.

“Weston Hospicecare remains a local, unique, charitable organisation which has captured the hearts and minds of many.

“Its closeness to the community is built on trust and a reputation for care, compassion and professional treatment and will continue to do this for many years to come.”

Last year, Weston Hospicecare cared for 137 patients at its in-patient unit and more than 750 in their own homes across Weston and North Somerset.

The hospice provides social, emotional, psychological, spiritual and physical care and support to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and to their loved ones.

Weston Hospicecare’s services cost more than £4million a year to run, but only a fifth of the money comes from Government funding.

The rest of hospice’s money is raised by members of the community and businesses, who hold or participate in fundraising events, and the charity’s network of shops.