THIS year’s ‘Homes for Hospice’ drive has shifted into top gear with all homes confirmed, and tickets going on sale soon. The 2009 event, held over December 5-6 is set to be truly special for organisers, Helen Dickey and Nicola Lambkin, marking a return to form after a gap of a few years. "We’re both absolutely passionate about the event," said Nicola, "and very keen to see it well supported, as it has been in the past." "Cancer has touched our lives, as it has everybody’s and we thought it was time to put the event on again. Hospice does such an amazing job for people living with cancer and their families and they need our support. "During the two-day event, there will be 10 beautifully decorated homes on display for ticket-holders to peruse and enjoy; each presenting their own particular spin on the perennially popular Christmas theme. "We’ve had to beg, borrow and steal decorations, but people have been very generous with what they have given us. "Many of the houses have opted to decorate with particular themes including ‘traditional’ Christmas, Scottish, Christmas wedding and country Christmas, and ticket-holders are in for a real variety of styles this yuletide. "Involvement from home-owners is entirely voluntary and we’ve never had a problem getting people on-board. We’re lucky in that we also have generous local business sponsors who have helped out with some of our costs, and in-kind payments. "Local businesses also get their chance to go on display at the accompanying ‘Home Centre’, which will be based at the Stratford on Stage rehearsal rooms on Regan Street – entry for the Home Centre will be via gold coin donation with drinks and nibbles included, and many local businesses have confirmed stalls there for the event including Devon’s Sweets and Santa’s Choice. United Travel is sponsoring the major prize of a fun quiz – a $1000 travel voucher – and answers for the quiz can be found in each of the display homes. "Last time we ran the event, we ended up giving $11,000 to Hospice. We’re hoping this year’s event will be a little cheaper to run because more businesses know about us and want to be a part of it. It would be nice if we could give Hospice a little more this year," said Nicola. Ticket numbers are limited to 500 so those interested in getting tickets better get in quick when they go on sale in September. They are $25 and can be purchased exclusively from Stratford I-site, United Travel Eltham and Devon Sweets, New Plymouth. Locals who want to get in early can call Nicola on 765 5447, or Debbie Sheehy on 764 8743.