Walk Down Memory Lane

Hospiscare - the charity which supports patients and their families living with terminal illness across Exeter, Mid and East Devon - has an annual fundraising event the Men’s Walk. And this year’s, which takes place on Saturday 18th March, will see one family taking part for a very special reason.

George Pert was an avid supporter

State Of Play

When St James C of E primary school opened the doors to its brand new building in 2018 the outdoor space around it was a blank page which has slowly been filled over the past few years. The gardening section with elevated beds, willow dome and forest school area have given the students great places to learn and play. But the school has even bigger and better plans: a trim tail style adventure playground. And the students themselves have had a say, with the school council, composed of representatives from each class, choosing the final design.

of Hospice and, along with his trusty sidekick, Ruaraidh the dog, regularly did the sponsored walk, until 2021 when illness prevented him. He was later diagnosed with prostrate cancer, but was determined to join in again the following year and was named the Men’s Walk top fundraiser for 2022, exceeding more than £3600!

Sadly, George lost his battle with cancer, but his wife Veronica, his sons and his local pub are putting together a team to do the walk in his memory.

‘George was so courageous,’ Veronica says. ‘He faced the prospect of dying in such a head-on way. When he first took part in Men’s Walk, he was really fit and healthy and of course we never thought he would need Hospiscare’s services himself. The hospice were really brilliant when he was ill and gave us so much support. It’s important for us to do this for George.’

To join Men’s Walk 2023 to raise vital funds for patients like George go to hospiscare.co.uk/menswalk

Now the school, its council and The Friends of St James are on a mission to raise £200,000 to equip and install the playground by this summer, with the local community and businesses already pledging their support.

Claire Mortimer, a parent and member of The Friends of St James says, ‘The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of outside play and is where this project originated. It goes beyond just the physical activity it provides. It helps children socialise, engage in imaginative play, understand their bodies as well as enjoy the freedom and fresh air away from the classroom.’

If you wish to donate directly to the project visit justgiving.com/campaign/ stjamesplay