A Harpenden-born student has raised over £1,000 for the hospice which, he says, is the only place he can give his severely-ill brother a hug.

Herts Advertiser: Dominic Josephs, 17, enjoying a hydrotherapy pool. He has been cared for by Keech Hospice Care, for the past seven years,Dominic Josephs, 17, enjoying a hydrotherapy pool. He has been cared for by Keech Hospice Care, for the past seven years, (Image: Archant)

Harry Josephs, 20, who is currently studying at Nottingham University, raised the money for Keech Hospice Care through Dry January, an experience he said was “much harder than I thought it would be”.

Harry undertook the challenge to support the hospice which has, for the past seven years, cared for his brother Dominic, 17, who suffers from a life-limiting illness, which includes epilepsy.

He said: “My family and I are grateful for the amazing work Keech Hospice Care does for Dom and this is my way of giving something back to this brilliant charity.”

The Luton-based facility provides care for terminally-ill children across Herts, yet has to raise 70 per cent of its own funding.

Harry said: “People are shocked when they hear Keech has to raise its own funding. By comparison, giving up drink for a month was easy.”

He believes that without the charity, he would not have been able to create the amazing memories he has with his brother.

Harry added: “We both love the hydroptherapy pool at Keech. It’s the only time I can give my brother a really good cuddle.

“For this alone, I’m grateful to Keech.”