WELSH Rugby star Adam Jones officially unveiled newly refurbished wards at St Anne’s Hospice in Newport today.

The international rugby player, along with the chief executive of Monmouthshire Building Society, Andrew Lewis, revealed the brand new wards at the hospice, which were built as part of an £8,000 donation from the building society.

Mr Jones, who is a patron for St Anne’s Hospice said: “My wife’s grandfather was in the hospice and it is a place that my family have always held close to us and we can’t speak highly enough of the work they do.

“It is so good to see them being given a helping hand and the refurbishments look fantastic.”

This year, Monmouthshire Building Society achieved one billion pounds in assets and, to mark this momentous occasion, decided to give back to the wider local community through funding projects. The funding given to St Anne’s Hospice is intended to create a lasting legacy for the Society, its members and the communities in which it operates.

As part of the new developments, refurbished single and double rooms have been built that have en-suite facilities. A seating area for families has been created and there are also family facilities, including a quiet space and an area for them to shower.

Chief Executive, Andrew Lewis said: “The achievement of a billion pounds of assets comes as a direct result of the support of our local communities, and we’re thrilled to be able to support St David’s Hospice Care and to see such a visible impact on the wards at St Anne’s. I am certain that the refurbishments will play an important role in helping those suffering from a terminal illness.”