Stepping up to the plate Success Pages 8

Dacre Hall Volunteers in the stunning setting of Lanercost Priory. cLes Dobson an avid Supporter of the Charity relayed when arriving at Lanercost “It’s been a fabulous day for such a worthwhile charity, I volunteer my time for Hospice at Home but I have been blown away by the support to help raise funds.” The majority of walkers continued on their route and enjoyed ice cream tubs donated by Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Creams and mini quiches by Capon Tree Café. The finale and finish took place in Victoria Gardens, Bitts Park where walkers raised their glasses in a toast of celebration and completion of a truly inspirational day, special cocktails were served by The Mane Bar, and walkers also enjoyed Cumberland Sausage Hot Dog and handmade chocolate provided by Lakeland Steaks and Castle Chocolates. All walkers agreed it was a challenging route, praising the organisation of the event. Julie Blundell, Head of Income Generation and Marketing at the charity shared thanks “Hospice at Home would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for making this day such a huge success, this was the first on the ground event in a very long while and it was fantastic to once again connect with Supporters face to face. The walkers were amazing and took on this challenge with wonderful spirit and determination. We are also very fortunate to have received amazing support from so many local volunteers who supported and marshalled the route. Further volunteers helped by registering participants and provided catering support, photographing and giving help in various locations and areas required - the event couldn’t have happened without these generous people. The kindness was also acknowledged of the numerous local companies which provided delicious products, services and expertise all which was required on the day to ensure all went to plan. We would also like to thank Unwin Jones Partnership and Westwood Landscape for sponsoring the event; their financial support has meant all the funds raised from the event can be allocated solely to provide care for patients and their families.”

Hospice at Home President Elizabeth Leeming took part in the event and summed up the day: ‘It was a joy to take part in the ‘Step up to the Plate’ walk today, the first major outdoor event for Hospice at Home Carlisle & North Lakeland since the pandemic struck. It was wonderful to see beautiful scenery and so many friends and supporters! A very big thank you to all who make this possible via their kindness and all those volunteers who gave their time freely and generously to support this local cause that has touched the lives of so many of us’.

Hospice at Home receive over 700 new patient referrals to their service each year and need to fundraise over £18,000 each week to continue delivering vital care and support to patients and their families, to learn more, refer to the service or to donate visit www.hospiceathome.co.uk or call 01768 210719.