BETFRED founder Fred Done has funded work to transform the gardens of a local hospice.

St Ann’s Hospice, in Little Hulton is currently celebrating its 40th year of being open.

As part of the celebrations, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester visited the hospice earlier this year and planted a commemorative magnolia genie tree in the garden.

To commemorate the anniversary further, Mr Done arranged for his personal gardeners to spend 12 days working at the hospice to transform the outside space.

St Ann’s Chief Executive Eamonn O’Neal, said: “Many of our patients and their families like to sit outside of the hospice and spend time relaxing and unwinding, and we know that they really enjoy being out in the fresh air.

“Fred and Betfred have been so incredibly supportive of St Ann’s over many years, and we’re enormously grateful. This latest kind donation really will make such a huge difference to the lives of our patients, and we can’t thank him enough.”

Billionaire businessman Mr Done founded the betting company with his brother Peter in 1967.

For many years, the betting company has supported St Ann’s Hospice, in Little Hulton.

Mr Done said: “It’s a joy to know that patients, visitors and staff are enjoying the gardens at the hospice.

“I’m so proud of my team that made it happen and really appreciate all of their hard work.

“It has been a pleasure to create a space that everyone will be able to take advantage of as the summer approaches.”