The MP for Barking Margaret Hodge has backed a parliamentary motion commending the work hospices do to help terminally-ill patients die in dignity.

More than 60 MPs have signed the Early Day Motion raising awareness of the contribution hospices such as St Francis in Romford make to residents and their families.

Mrs Hodge said: “Our own St Francis Hospice in Havering-atte-Bower cares for more than 1,700 people a year.

“It’s important that we pay tribute to the work they do, which is why I am supporting Hospice Week and signing Early Day Motion 172 in the House of Commons.”

Meanwhile, the Labour MP has congratulated the Youth League UK charity in Dagenham after it secured nearly �300,000 of Lottery funding to boost sports participation and reduce offending among deprived teenagers.

The MP also praised Thames Tenants’ and Residents’ Association in Barking, which received nearly �5,000 from the National Lottery to create a community garden for social events and educational activities.