Big birthday bash for Acorns.

Byline: Jane Tyler

HUNDREDS of people flocked to enjoy a massive party thrown by children's hospice Acorns to celebrate its 21st birthday.

The Great Hall of Birmingham University was yesterday filled with over 650 people made up of families who have used Acorns over the years, former staff, volunteers and supporters.

They tucked into tea and cakes and enjoyed entertainment from a bhangra band, poetry readings, listened to a choir formed by Acorns' staff and enjoyed a drumming performance.

Master of ceremonies for the day was former Central TV presenter Llewella Bailey and there were speeches and reminisces by former staff of their time at Acorns over the years, as well as a visit from Birmingham Lord Mayor Coun Michael Wilkes.

Acorns' first hospice in Selly Oak was opened by Princess Diana in 1988 and since then has expanded and there are now branches in Walsall and Worcester. The charity also sends its trained staff into homes to look after their life limited children.

Acorns' spokeswoman Melanie Hinds said it was estimated the West Midlands had over 1,000 children with life limiting illnesses who are unlikely to live beyond their 19th birthday.

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CAPTION(S):

Fun: Corah Lewis (14) and Luke Webster with Punjabi folk dancers. Party: Chris Reid (left) with poet Giovanni Esposito.