The Douglas Macmillan Hospice’s third annual Celebrity Golf Day is happening on Thursday 29th July at Newcastle-under-Lyme Golf Club, and a host of famous faces have agreed to take part.
Comedian Jasper Carrott, actor Tim Healey, former Grand National Winner Bob Champion, former World Snooker Champion Shaun Murphy, former Manchester United and Oldham Athletic player Andy Ritchie and former snooker player Willie Thorne, will all be teeing off in order to raise valuable funds for the Hospice.
Peter Keller, Chairman of the Hospice Golf Days, said:
“We are delighted to welcome these celebrities to North Staffordshire once again and thank them for their support. We have managed to raise nearly £40,000 for the Hospice from the two previous Golf Days.”
The event’s main sponsor is Lloyds TSB with associate sponsorship from Altecnic Ltd, based in Stafford. Each team of three that has entered will play a round of golf with a celebrity and in the evening, all participants will attend a Gala Dinner and Cabaret at the Moat House Hotel on Festival Park.
Peter added: “We still have a few team slots available. The cost of a team of three is £500, which entitles the team to a Brunch Breakfast at the Golf Club from 10.30am, a round of Golf starting at 12 noon and a place at the Gala Dinner in the evening.”
Anyone wishing to take part in this special event is urged to contact the Fundraising Department on 01782 344304 or visit the Celebrity Golf Day page for more information.
Sky-diver proposes to girlfriend after 10,000ft charity jump
09 July 2010, The Sentinel
WHEN Scott Hancock knew he wanted to pop the question, he decided to propose in the most elaborate way he could think of - during a charity skydive.
The 40-year-old asked girlfriend Janice Knapper moments after landing following a 10,000ft jump.
Scott and Janice have been together for just over two years and now plan to marry in 2011.
But Scott, from May Bank, says he still doesn't know what made him take the plunge and decide to pop the question in the way he did.
The quality engineer, of Taylor Street, said: "I don't know what made me do it at that point. I suppose I just thought it was the right time and a way to propose that we would always remember."
Scott had planned to propose to Janice in mid-air.
But he had to change his plans after having nowhere to store the ring in his jumpsuit.
Instead, staff at the airfield looked after the band while the couple did the dive and then took it across to Scott as he landed.
And Janice, who works at Newcastle College and a respite clinic, said it was a total surprise. She added: "I was very shocked, but Scott is a romantic and likes to do things differently to everyone else.
"I rushed over to him to give him a kiss when we landed and wondered what he was doing at first.
"Then he got the ring out and it was just amazing. There was a rush of emotions all round."
Scott and Janice, who met through friends at a birthday party, were taking part in the skydive to raise money for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice in memory of Scott's mum Christine Hancock.
She passed away from cancer at the charity's Blurton base around three years ago. Before that she had home visits from nurses.
But Scott said Christine, also from May Bank, would have approved of him turning the fund-raiser into a proposal.
He added: "It was something my mother would like because she had a great sense of humour."
The couples did tandem sky dives at Tilstock airfield, near Whitchurch, and were joined on the day by friend Darren Edwards.
Between them, they hope to have raised around £500 from the recent jump.
And Scott says it is something he will never forget.
He added: "The skydive was fantastic, something I would recommend to anyone.
"It's something you have got to experience at least once in your life."
Liz Clarke, the hospice's fund-raising manager, thanked the trio for their efforts and wished Scott and Janice well for their wedding.
She said: "It's amazing the lengths local people go to raise the much needed funds for the hospice."
Thousands of Women Walk Through the Night for the DMH
30 June 2010, Faye Johnson
This year’s Midnight to Sunrise Walk has been hailed a huge success. The following article was featured in The Sentinel on Monday, 28 June:
IT WAS the third time Suzanne Large had taken part in the walk, but events over the past year had given her even more reason to get involved.
Suzanne's friend Sam Bevington, from Saverley Green, near Cresswell, passed away from breast cancer, aged 37, in September.
And her uncle Peter Carnwell, aged 65, from Meir, died at the hospice last month after cancer spread through his body.
Like many who turned out for the women-only event, Suzanne was taking part to remember loved ones and to give something back to the Blurton-based charity.
The full-time mum, of Dylan Road, Meir Hay, said: "My uncle went into the hospice a couple of times before he passed away.
"He used to talk about the care he had there. He said it was fantastic.
"When he passed away, my aunty put an acknowledgement in The Sentinel to thank the hospice staff because they were so good."
The 38-year-old first took up the event in a bid to keep fit and has raised about £50 each time she has taken part.
She said: "The atmosphere is amazing every year, it's just like one big party.
"Sam and my uncle both had cancer when I took part last year but they were still here then so I will be thinking about them. It will be more poignant."
It was the fourth time the Douglas Macmillan Hospice has run the event and it has become one of their biggest fund-raisers of the year.
The event has helped to bring in more than £350,000 over previous years.
More than 1,400 women took part on Friday night.
The route started at Britannia Stadium and passed through Longton, Fenton, Joiners Square and Heron Cross, before returning to the stadium.
Many of those taking part were groups of friends, work colleagues or families.
Mother and daughter Samantha and Charlotte Rowley, from Alsager, were walking to remember Cyril Rowley, Samantha's father-in-law and Charlotte's grandad.
The 61-year-old passed away from liver cancer in 2003.
Samantha, aged 38, said: "He didn't go into the hospice but the nurses came out to him at home in Hanley and were really lovely to him."
Charlotte, aged 17, added: "We go to events such as Light Up a Life at Christmas so we thought it would be nice to do this as well. We've raised about £200."
Several people also took to the course in fancy dress. Sylvia Dodds has donned a different outfit for the event for the past four years, always walking with friends in memory of her husband David, who died from gullet cancer 10 years ago.
The 67-year-old, of Weston Coyney Road, Longton, who dressed as a clown, said: "David wasn't looked after at the Dougie Mac but they were very good with me when I needed help or advice."
About 200 volunteers were brought in to marshal the event.
Douglas Macmillan officials spoke out to thank everyone who gave up their time, as well as businesses Stoke City, Co-op and Fitness First, which supported the walk.
Event organiser Zoe Hollingsworth, senior fund-raising development manager at the hospice, said: "Last year's event raised £148,000 for the hospice which was a fantastic sum to help continue the work that we do providing care for people facing cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.
"We'd like to thank everyone who has helped out and taken part again this year.
"It would be absolutely fantastic if we could raise a similar amount to what we had last year."
In fact, the Hospice hopes to raise £100,000 from this year’s Walk.
After reading The Sentinel’s article, Zoe added: “It is a truly inspiring spectacle, these ‘Angels’ make it possible for us to continue to care for patients with terminal illnesses such as Cancer.”
Hospice responds to VAT Increase
30 June 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has responded to the recent announcement by the Government that VAT will increase in the New Year.
Jane Jackson, Head of Finance at the Hospice, said:
“Whilst we fully acknowledge that we all need to play a part in helping to reverse the dire economic position of our country, we also have to balance this with the needs we face daily from local people for Douglas Macmillan Hospice to fund the provision of palliative care for terminally ill adults.”
With Chancellor George Osborne announcing the widely predicted rise in the standard rate of VAT to 20% from 17.5%, charities, such as the Hospice, stand to lose more than other sectors when the change takes place in January 2011.
Many businesses are able to recover VAT and will therefore be largely unaffected by the rate change , however as a charity, the Hospice will not be able to recoup the extra VAT on expenditure as our services are VAT exempt which means that any VAT we pay on goods and services from suppliers is irrecoverable.
Jane added: “It is an even greater concern to us when we shall have to seek income to cover increases in our costs – we cannot ask our loyal and dedicated supporters for more. They give so much and so generously already and we know that they may themselves be facing the prospect of reduced disposable income, with additional VAT on their purchases such as fuel, clothes and household furnishings.
“The delay in implementation until the New Year will allow the Hospice time to engage with Government through our networks to try to minimise the impact on the sector.”
There’s Now More to Play for in the DMH Weekly Lottery
24 June 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice will be revamping the prize structure of its Lottery from Friday 2nd July. A brand new rollover prize will be introduced, which will give players the chance to win up to £10,000.
At the moment, over 17,000 people pay £1 each week to take part in the Lottery. Donna Adams, Lottery Promotions and Development Manager, said: “Our ultimate aim is to have 20,000 members in our Lottery draw each week. If our membership reached 20,000 this would help us to continue our expansion plans to provide care for local people with other terminal illnesses as well as cancer.
“Our new lottery prize structure means that every week we guarantee 109 of our Lottery players will win a share of £3,500. In addition to this, we will also have a fantastic rollover prize, which will start at £500. If this prize is not won, it will be rolled over to the following week up to a maximum of £10,000. At 20 weeks the rollover prize will then become a guaranteed jackpot of £10,000.
Donna added: “The Douglas Macmillan Hospice Lottery offers a Win-Win situation. All money raised goes directly to the Hospice to provide care and support for people in North Staffordshire who face a life limiting illness, and at the same time, our Lottery players also have the chance to scoop their own cash reward.”
So if you fancy a chance of winning up to £10,000 while helping your local Hospice, call the Lottery Team on 01782 344321 or visit the Lottery Page.
Local Companies Construct Money Walls for Hospice
11 June 2010, Faye Johnson
Two stunning, bespoke Money Walls are to be installed at Freeport Talke and Hanley Market in order to raise funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
The original concept and support for the Walls came from J and S Seddon Ltd, who are based in Stoke. Mark Woton, Manager of the company, said: “We are very happy to have supported the Hospice in this way. We hope that the Walls will raise a considerable amount of money for this wonderful local charity.”
Hough Engineering, based in Chesterton, has also lent a hand with the design and production of the Money Walls. Andy Hough, Managing Director, said: “Our company has been a regular supporter of the Hospice over many years. When Seddon’s got in touch with us to discuss the project, we had no hesitation in giving up some time to design a new Money Wall.
“All our staff realise the tremendous work the staff and volunteers at the Hospice undertake for so many local people. We know that the Hospice needs to raise over £8million each year to maintain their level of care, and we hope these new Money Walls will help to reach the target.”
Both companies donated the materials for the Walls and a team of dedicated workers were involved in the construction of them. This team included Shaun Forrester, who drew out the Wall and its sizes, and Paul Carr, who fabricated it and worked on the internal design with the rest of the team. The electrical workings of the Walls were donated by Steve Goodwin from SG Electrical and the print works were donated by Scott Clegg.
Shaun, who works for Hough Engineering, said: “I have lost both my parents in the last 12 months. My dad, Raymond, was treated by the Hospice at Home Team. The care that was shown towards him and to our immediate family was wonderful and so I was delighted to be asked to help in this project.
“I feel I have done something worthwhile, and to thank the Hospice in some small way for all their help at a very difficult time for us all.”
It is hoped that the new Money Walls will encourage shoppers at both outlets to donate their loose change to the Hospice.
Rob Nixon, Hanley Market Manager said: “Stoke-on-Trent Market is delighted once again , to be able to help Douglas Macmillan Hospice .It is a local charity very close to the hearts of all the Market Traders and Market customers .”
Helen Anderton , Freeport Talke Manager added: “We are pleased to be supporting Douglas Macmillan Hospice as our Charity of the Year. The presence of the Money Wall has been a welcome addition and we are working proactively to raise more money for this worthy cause”
Helen Finnemore, Fundraising Organiser said: “This has been a shining example of local businesses coming together to help their local hospice. The new walls are works of art themselves – fun, interactive and eye-catching.”
We hope customers both at Freeport and at Hanley Market enjoy the experience of donating their loose change in this way and that they raise significant funds for the Hospice.”
Dougie Mac Volunteers Get Royal Recognition
02 June 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is delighted to announce that their team of volunteers have received the Queen’s Award, an MBE which highlights the outstanding work of volunteer groups.
The Hospice’s volunteers were nominated by Richard Bowyer, Deputy Editor of the Sentinel. He said: “Volunteers are absolutely vital to the running of Douglas Macmillan Hospice. They are unsung heroes who undertake many and varied jobs in every department, both internally and externally. They do not seek publicity or praise for their work, they volunteer because simply, they care.
This award is truly well deserved. We in North Staffordshire are honoured to have such people working in our community.”
Volunteers have always played a vital role in the running of the Douglas Macmillan Hospice. Since it opened in 1973, it is estimated that over 3,000 people have volunteered their time.
Guy Clarke, Facilities and Voluntary Services Manager at the Hospice, said: “Everyone associated with the Hospice is very proud of this recognition of our volunteers at such a high level.
“Our volunteers make a significant contribution to the care provided by the Hospice, for local people facing terminal illnesses such as cancer. We simply could not achieve all we do without them.”
Michelle Roberts, Chief Executive, agreed with this comment and added: “Volunteering is something that anyone can do, no matter what age they are, where they come from, how much they earn or what religious or cultural background they belong to. It is a wonderful opportunity that is open to all.”
DMH Shop Opens in Town Centre
01 June 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice’s Retail Department is set to reopen their 15th shop back in the City Centre on Lamb Street on Wednesday 9th June. Yvonne Colclough Operations Manager said: “We opened our first shop in Hanley 15 years ago and had such strong support from our customers, and only closed when the lease expired last year.
“We are very excited to be returning to the City Centre and especially about our new premises on Lamb Street, this is going to be one of our biggest shops, open 7 days a week, with even late night shopping on a Thursday”.
The Potteries Shopping Centre, a long-standing supporter of the Hospice, has continued its support by assisting with activities to attract donated stock for the shop ready for its grand opening. As part of a big campaign to generate stock for the shop, the hospice will be setting up their Dougie Mac Donation Station in the Potteries Shopping Centre from Monday 31st May – Sunday 6th June on the ground floor by the escalators.
If you are planning to go shopping next week then this is the perfect opportunity to have a little clear out and bring the items with you ready fro your new purchases. Simply BAG it and BRING it to the Dougie Mac donation station on the above dates.
Paul Francis, General Manager at the Shopping Centre, has been busy promoting the campaign to the centre retailers and all their employees to donate unwanted goods. He said: “The Potteries Shopping Centre is delighted to have been able to successfully support the Douglas Macmillan Hospice for a number of years. John Leese aka The Tin Can Man has collected over £300,000 in the Centre and is a favorite of shoppers.
“The opening of the Douglas Macmillan Hospice shop in the centre further strengthens the relationship we have already established, and we know the public holds the hospice close to their hearts too so we hope they will shop and donate their unwanted items to the store in order to support this great cause”
Karen Rose Director of Fundraising said “We would like to thank the Potteries Shopping Centre Management and traders for their warm welcome and support during fitting and merchandising of the unit in readiness for opening.
“We think traders appreciate that we leave the selling of new goods with them - unlike some other charity shops, 96% of our stock are recycled and re-donated goods, the other 4% is branded items such as keys rings, bags for life, cards. We look forward to welcoming shoppers to our Hanley Shop back in the heart of the city”.
If you have old clothes, shoes, accessories, books, bric-a-brac, toys, DVDs, CDs then why not help your local hospice and donate a bag of items to help raise much needed funds to provide care for people living with cancer and other terminal illnesses across North Staffordshire.
Carol Pulson from Kidsgrove regularly donates her clothes and other items to the Kidsgrove shop. Carol’s mum, Violet Hopper, died of liver cancer in 2003. She received pain relief to control her symptoms from the Hospice’s Community Nursing Team.
Carol said: “My mum was a big supporter of the Hospice and so in her honour, I have continued to show my support by donating goods to the Kidsgrove shop. It’s good to clear out old clothes that don’t fit anymore and know they are going to raise money for such a worthwhile cause. The Hospice is the only charity I support as it’s close to my heart”.
If you are unable to get along to the Dougie Mac donation station or our new Hanley shop, go to http://www.dmhospice.org.uk/pages/Locationofshops.htm to find your nearest shop or ring 01782 344304. Our recently opened Hanford shop opens until 7.00pm most weekday nights and on Sunday 11.00 am - 4.00pm.
Take A Stroll ‘Down Your Street’ to Help the Dougie Mac This Volunteers’ Week
01 June 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is celebrating Volunteers’ Week, which runs from the 1st – 7th June. The Week is an annual event which celebrates the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK. It plays a huge part in raising the profile of the millions of volunteers who regularly contribute to society, while inspiring others to get involved too.
During Volunteers’ Week, the Hospice is encouraging supporters to get involved in their Down Your Street’ campaign, which involves people becoming a postie for an hour or so every couple of months, posting leaflets and flyers through doors near to where they live. There are over 220,000 households in North Staffordshire, so many hands are needed!
This campaign is a great way to boost support for the Hospice without incurring an increase in postal costs. As an organisation, we are constantly looking to save costs in ways that do not detract from raising money. We believe this is one way we can do just that.
If you want to give this a go, you can either email volunteernow@dmhospice.org.uk or call 01782 344300. Simply give your postcode, tell us the street or streets you would like to cover and let us have a contact number to get back in touch with you.
Together we can make a difference. All you have to do is take a walk ‘Down Your Street’.
‘M Factor’ Hopes To Boost Local Hospice Funds
25th May 2010, Faye Johnson
Twenty-one members of staff from Morrisons stores based in Cheadle, Stone, Crewe and Milehouse, are taking part in ‘The M Factor’ – a talent competition which hopes to raise funds for hospices within North Staffordshire.
The event takes place on Thursday 27th May at Adderley Green Working Mens Club at 8.00pm and is part of a UK–wide campaign by the supermarket to raise £1million for hospice care over the next 10 months.
Just like its TV counterparts, ‘The M Factor’ will have a panel of judges – not Simon Cowell or Cheryl Cole, but the four Store Managers. The contest has been organised by Suzie Gidman, who works at the Stone store.
Suzie said: “We have had a fantastic response from members of staff who wish to take part. The calibre ranges from novice to semi-professional, so we should have a really good night – but the most important thing is to raise valuable funds for the Hospices within our area.”
Liz Clarke, Fundraising Manager at the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, added: “We do thank all the members of staff who have agreed to take part in this event and all those who will be supporting them on the night.
“We hope that they will enjoy the evening, and that a considerable amount of money can be raised for the Hospice.”
Accountants Get Sporty for the Dougie Mac
20 May 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is urging supporters to get involved in their annual ‘Time to Dress Up’ event on Friday 28th May. Local chartered accounts, Thompson Wright, are taking part in this by having a sports theme in their office in Ryecroft, Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Tracy Walton, Secretary and PA to the Managing Director, said: “Various suggestions were put forward and a sports theme was the most popular (and hopefully the less distracting!). We will be giving prizes for best outfit, or even the outfit that gives us the best laugh.”
‘Time to Dress Up’ encourages people to wear an outfit that they wouldn’t normally wear to the office, school or a social group and raise money for the Douglas Macmillan at the same time.
As well as dressing up, or down, you could raise even more money by selling cakes at lunchtime, organising a raffle or quiz, bring in your unwanted items and set up a stall. You could even do something sponsored or get your boss to make the tea for the day!
Tracy added: “I would urge other organisations to take part in this event because it makes the working day fun and at the same time you are raising money for a local charity.”
If your workplace, school or social group want to hold a ‘Time to Dress Up’ event, contact the Fundraising Team on 01782 344304 for more information.
John Takes a Detour on the Dougie Mac Bike Ride
19 May 2010, Faye Johnson
John Barber took part in the annual Dougie Mac Bike Ride last weekend. He took the Nantwich route, but added a unique twist by taking a wrong turn at Stapeley, taking him back to Audlem.
The Information Manager and E-Business Co-ordinator at Michelin said: “I took a detour through Woore before joining the main route. This meant that my total journey distance was 52.36 miles.”
John did the Bike Ride in memory of his friend and colleague Mike Fogden, also known as Foggy, who received support from the Douglas Macmillan before he died nearly 3 years ago from lung cancer.
As well as having to take a detour, John also encountered a puncture, but his family came to the rescue and helped him to repair it. Despite the mishaps, John completed the Ride in 3 hours and 32 minutes.
He added: “It is a great event, and something to be challenged by, but something that is "doable" and can be completed at your own pace. This is a ride, not a race and goes through some lovely countryside. There are not too many cars either, considering the distance.”
So far, John has managed to raise £644.50 for the Hospice and says that he would definitely do the Bike Ride again.
Morrisons Stores Pledge to Raise £1millon for Hospices
17 May 2010, Faye Johnson
This week, Morrisons stores in Cheadle, Hanley, Leek and Stone will be pulling out all the stops to raise a smile and vital funding for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice as part of a UK-wide campaign by the supermarket to raise £1 million for hospice care.
Karen Rose, Director of Fundraising said: “We are delighted to be Morrisons’ Charity of the Year. We already have an excellent relationship with the stores in our area, and we look forward to working with these four stores over the coming months to help the company to raise as much money as possible for Douglas Macmillan Hospice.”
Every Morrisons store has teamed up with their nearest hospice to raise money over the next 10 months that will directly fund hospice services in the community.
Angus Maciver, Group Marketing and Communications Director at Morrisons, said: “Each year, we ask our colleagues to nominate a charity that will help “Raise a Smile” and for 2010, we are really pleased that the local hospices was the resounding choice. The hospices do great work at the heart of the communities that many of our stores operate in and we look forward to raising some vital funds to support such a great cause.
“We will officially launch the partnership across the nation at our stores on Wednesday 19th May, with donation bucket collections and other activities which we hope will get the fundraising off to an excellent start to hit our £1million target.”
Gill Darlow, who works in the Morrisons store in Stone, took part in the making of a film which helped local hospices be chosen as the nominated charity.
She said: “I am very proud to have been involved and to be able to give something back following the fantastic support the Douglas Macmillan Hospice gave me and my family when my husband, Bob, was receiving care. After a courageous fight, he passed away in July 2008.”
Graham and William Cycle 1,000 Miles to Help Hospices
17 May 2010, Faye Johnson
Graham Magwick, a member of the IT Services team at Towergate Solutions, and his friend, William Watts, are going on a 1,000 miles cycle ride from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for Help the Hospices, the central charity for the hospice movement.
The bike ride will begin on Thursday 27th May and the friends are aiming to complete it in 10-and-a-half days with no rest! Graham and William will have to be self-sufficient throughout the journey, carrying all their own luggage and spares, being prepared to do any repairs necessary to keep them moving.
Graham hopes that the cycle ride will help to highlight the importance of hospices, like the Douglas Macmillan, and the work that they do.
He said: “I've known several people who have benefitted from hospice care and think that the hospice movement is doing a fantastic job. Most of the funding hospices require does not come from the NHS and has to be raised by charitable giving so I hope my cycling efforts will bring them some much-needed support.”
Find out more or donate now at www.justgiving.com/madgwick-lejog. So far the chaps have raised in excess of £2,400 including Gift Aid. The Towergate Charitable Foundation have also agreed to match all funds donated.
Hundreds of Supporters Take on the Dougie Mac’s Bike Ride Challenge
07 May 2010, Faye Johnson
The annual Dougie Mac Bike Ride is taking place on Sunday 16th May and already hundreds of people have registered for it. Last year’s Bike Ride raised a fantastic £60,000 for the Hospice.
The event, which is being kindly sponsored by Michelin, the Goodfood Chain, Pro Vision, Wardle Transport and Steelite International, is one where everyone, from professional bikers to families, can all take part.
Zoe Hollingsworth, the event organiser, said: “We are grateful to our sponsors for making this event possible and judging from the entries already received, we hope to beat last year’s fantastic figure so that we can continue to give care for around 1,700 patients from this area at the Hospice and at home.”
All cyclists will start and finish at the Michelin Athletic Club (off the A34) and there are three routes to choose from. The first is 110 miles to Llangollen, the second is 50 miles to Nantwich and the third is a local 10 mile route.
It isn’t too late to enter this year’s Bike Ride. The early fee for the event is £15 or you can pay £20 on the day. For further details, call the Fundraising Team on 01782 344304, email fundraising@dmhospice.org.uk or go to the Events page.
Zoe added: “The Hospice needs to raise in excess of £8 million each year to maintain the standard of care which we currently give to people suffering from Cancer and other life limiting illnesses.”
Thousands of Pounds to Be Won In Summer Draw
06 May 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has £5,000 in cash prizes on offer in this year’s Summer Prize Draw. There are three top cash prizes on offer, the first prize is £3,000, the second prize is £1,000 and the third prize is £500. Don’t worry if you fail to win the top prizes, because there are also five runner-up prizes of £100 up for grabs.
Last year, the Draw raised £70,000, which funded the Hospice’s patient care services. Donna Adams, Lottery Promotions Manager and Development Manager, said: “As the demand for our specialist patient care services increases, so does the need for support from the community, which is why fundraising initiatives like our Summer Draw are so very important for the Hospice.”
Tickets cost just £1 each and are available in books of 12. They are available from any of the Hospice’s 14 shops, the main reception at the Hospice or the Fundraising Department. The Draw will be taking place on Wednesday 11th August, but all tickets must be returned by Friday 23rd July.
For more information about this year’s Summer Draw, contact the Lottery Department on 01782 344321.
Have a Flutter for the DMH
06 May 2010, Faye Johnson
National Hospice Flutter Week is an ideal opportunity for people to support the Douglas Macmillan. The campaign begins this Saturday, 8th May.
During Flutter Week, supporters have the opportunity to buy a lottery ticket, an instant win scratch card, a Summer Draw Ticket and also sign up to be a regular player of the Hospice’s lottery.
Donna Adams, Lottery Promotions and Development Manager, said: “Flutter Week is a great opportunity for us to raise the awareness of our Dougie Mac lottery products. All proceeds do directly to help fund our specialist patient care services and at the same time our supporters have the chance to scoop their own reward by winning one of our many cash prizes.”
The Hospice’s Lottery Promotional Stand will be at the following venues throughout Flutter Week:
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th May – Freeport Shopping Mall in Talke
Monday 10th May – Morrison’s in Cheadle, Sainsbury’s in Hanley and ASDA in Tunstall
Tuesday 11th May – Morrison’s in Stone
Wednesday 12th May – Garners Garden Centre in Silverdale
Thursday 13th May – Morrison’s at Festival Park and Sainsbury’s in Stoke
Friday 14th May – Morrison’s at Festival Park and Sainsbury’s in Stoke
Saturday 15th May – Morrison’s at Festival Park
Charity Match Hopes to Boost Dougie Mac’s Funds
12 April 2010, Faye Johnson
A charity football match between Staffordshire FC and Tunstall Tavern FC has been organised to raise funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
The match, which is being held at Northwood Stadium on Keelings Road, Stoke-on-Trent, is taking place on Saturday 24th April and will kick-off at 2pm.
Tickets cost £5 for adults and £1 for children under 10 years old. These can be purchased by contacting Matt Hendley on 07534 597743 and will also be available on the day.
All proceeds from the match will go directly to the Hospice.
Spring Into Action for the DMH
06 April 2010, Faye Johnson
Hundreds of people will be taking part in the annual Douglas Macmillan Hospice 5K Run / Walk which is happening this Sunday, 11th April 2010.
The event, which is supported by Wedgwood and Asics takes place at the Wedgwood Estate and starts at 9.45am.
The cost to enter prior to the day is £10 which includes a DMH Branded T-Shirt but there is also an opportunity to enter on the day which will cost £15.
Zoe Hollingsworth, Senior Fundraising Development Manager said:
“This event has proved very popular over the years. It is the first Hospice outdoor event of the year, and it attracts serious club runners who regard the run as an excellent training run as it is line with UK athletic standards.
“We have again many families and their dogs who have entered this year, and many will be walking in memory of a loved one.
“The walk will probably take about 45 minutes to complete and it is a great opportunity to enjoy a walk through a lush country estate and is an opportunity to raise money for a most worthwhile local charity."
Grant Gives Independence to Terminal Patients
06 April 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is thrilled to receive a grant, along with Katherine House Hospice in Stafford and the Donna Louise Trust based in Stoke-on-Trent.
The grant will enable the Hospice to build a community intermediate palliative care unit on its site in Blurton. Three independent living units for local adults with a terminal diagnosis will be built during the summer. The self contained units will be fully supported by the Hospice’s clinical team and will enable patients to have members of their family staying with them too.
Karen Rose, Director of the Hospice said: “This is a major development for the people of North Staffordshire. The Hospice will be able to offer intermediate care facilities for those people who have different care needs and support that we cannot meet on the in-patient unit, or in the patient’s own home.
“The self contained units will ensure that patients and their families have a better quality of life. The grant also means we can ensure that every penny donated to us by local people, companies and groups is still used to fund the running costs of the Hospice – now over £7.2 million each year.
“We are forever grateful of everyone’s unstinting generosity. We use grants from governments and other bodies to undertake building and development work. We are always aware that we have to make sure we continue to provide all other care services at the same quality and quantity because local people have come to depend on the hospice being there when they face cancer and increasing range of other life limiting illnesses.”
More details will be made available in the coming weeks, so please keep checking the website for further information.
Duncan and Friends Get On Their Bikes for the Dougie Mac
24 March 2010, Faye Johnson
Duncan Cowans, owner of a hairdressing salon in Cheadle, Staffordshire, has been in business for 35 years in business and is celebrating by embarking on a bike ride with eight friends to raise funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
On Sunday 23rd May, the team will leave Blackpool Tower at 9am to ride to the Hospice in Stoke-on-Trent. The team hope to complete the journey in approximately eight hours.
Duncan said: “I have been a supporter of the Hospice for many years and have managed to organise a number of events in memory of my mother, who was looked after by the Hospice at Home nursing team before she died in 2006.
“This bike ride is a big undertaking, but although we all might suffer on the day, there are plenty of people who are suffering a lot longer from a terminal disease. We do hope that we will be able to raise a considerable amount of money for what is a most worthwhile local charity.”
Duncan added: “We have already had a tremendous response from local people who have offered to help, in particular the Stoddard Bus Company of Cheadle, who have kindly donated transport for the team to travel to Blackpool early on the Sunday morning.”
Businesses Encouraged to Raise Awareness of ‘Dying Matters’
24 March 2010, Faye Johnson
We recently told you about a Breakfast Meeting being held at the Douglas Macmillan Hospice to discuss ‘dying matters’.
The event, held on Friday 19th March, was a great success, with nearly 70 invited guests from key local businesses attending in order to hear about the National Dying Matters Campaign. Guests were also informed of the work of the Hospice and its part in the coalition that is hoping to transform public attitudes towards death, dying and bereavement in the UK.
The Government has placed End of Life Care at the centre of its five year strategy for the NHS. The strategy commits to giving patients approaching the end of their life, the right to choose where they wish to spend their final days. At present, 56 – 70 percent of people would prefer to die at home, yet of the 500,000 people who die each year in England, 58 percent die in hospitals.
At the meeting, Michelle Roberts, Chief Executive of the Hospice said: “It has been said that what we fear most about dying is the associated loss of control. By empowering patients to express their wishes, that control can be restored.
“The Dying Matters coalition believes that promoting openness and communication are the first steps to achieving this. We are committed to supporting changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours around death and dying, and aim to encourage a greater willingness to engage on death and bereavement issues.”
Chris Myatt, Chairman of the Board of Trusteees, added:
“Just like your own organisations, the Dougie Mac is an integral part of the North Staffordshire community. We are the only adult hospice in this area providing palliative care, both here at the Hospice at Blurton but also and ever increasingly in the community itself, namely our Hospice at Home Service.
“The community that we serve and the people who support us are your employees, your customers, your suppliers and the people who recognise your own businesses in that community.
“I would ask you all to think how you can cascade these thoughts and encourage others to care and to help. The Hospice was opened in 1973, we continue to grow and expand our services that we offer and we don’t expect that to change.
“We want to be there for when a colleague, an acquaintance, someone you just know or even a family member might need our help. For that, we need continued support and we need your help to get it.”
Help the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and It Could Be Your Lucky Day
10 March 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is launching their new scratch card game, ‘Lucky Day’, this week.
There is a first prize of £1,000 to be won, as well as hundreds of runner-up cash prizes.
Donna Adams, Lottery Promotions and Development Manager, said: “We are delighted to be launching our fifth scratch card game and thank everybody who has helped us to raise over £110,000 for patient care since our first game in 2005.
“Our scratch cards offer a really fun way of supporting the Hospice. In particular, we have found that many people who are organising a very special day, like a wedding, purchase our cards as a Wedding Favour which provides valuable funds for the Hospice with the possibility of guests winning cash prizes too.”
Cards cost £1 each and are available at all Douglas Macmillan shops and from over 100 outlets throughout North Staffordshire, including pubs, working men’s clubs and salons.
Reunion Raises Funds for DMH
10 March 2010, Faye Johnson
Lyn Grocott from Denston, Uttoxeter, has organised a school reunion for pupils who attended Clough Hall Comprehensive School in Kidsgrove between 1974 and 1976.
The event, which is happening on Saturday 13th March at Kidsgrove Football and Athletic Club from 8pm, will not only be a great chance to meet up with old school friends, but is also being used as a fundraising opportunity for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
Over 130 people will be attending the reunion. Lyn said: “We are really looking forward to seeing so many former pupils on Saturday.”
Everybody from these years either has or will turn 50 years old this year, so the reunion will be a really big birthday party, as well as a fundraising event in aid of the Hospice.
Lyn added: “I know the Dougie Mac does not receive any funding from any national charity and so all the money we are able to raise will go towards patient care at the Hospice.”
Rob Plant, another former Cough Hall pupil who now lives in Talke, will undertake an 85 mile bike ride on the day of the reunion. He will start at Kidsgrove Football Club at 10am and will ride along canal paths and hopes to complete the ride within seven hours. Rob has nearly raised £1,000 through sponsorship.
Anyone interested in attending the reunion should contact fundraising in the first instance.
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice Invites Businesses to Breakfast
5 March 2010, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is inviting local businesses from across North Staffordshire to join them and their business associates at their breakfast event on Friday 19th March.
The Hospice is part of a national coalition, which is campaigning to transform the public’s attitudes towards death, dying and bereavement in the UK. Events and activities, like the Hospice’s business breakfast, are being planned across the country as part of a national awareness week to get people talking more openly about ‘dying matters’.
The Douglas Macmillan is holding their own event to promote this as well as the work that the Hospice does. The breakfast will be held at the Hospice and start at 7.45am until 9.00am. During this time, guests will be given information about the coalition, the care that the Hospice provides and be told why we should care about ‘dying matters’.
It is felt that local businesses are an important link to the society that the Hospice provides End of Life Care for, and are therefore key to transforming attitudes and raising awareness of the Douglas Macmillan and the role that it plays in the life cycle.
Places at the breakfast are limited, so any businesses that are interested in attending this event and finding out more about this very current issue are urged to contact Karen Rose, Director of Fundraising, on karenrose@dmhospice.org.uk or call 01782 344304.
Dougie Mac’s Shops Bag £1million!
5 March 2010, Faye Johnson
In just 11 months, the Douglas Macmillan Hospice’s shops have reached £1million in turnover. Last year, the Hospice’s shops had an income of just over £850,000, so now hitting the £1million milestone is a major achievement.
Karen Rose, Director of Fundraising said: “Thank you to all local people for donating goods and shopping in our shops, helping us to reach £1million in 11 months, without your help and support this would not have been possible.
“We must not forget the 250 volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help raise this magical figure. To get such support must really mean local people want our shops as part of the face of the High Street.”
The success of the Douglas Macmillan’s shops shows that charity shopping can be beneficial to local towns and is not as damaging as it is sometimes thought to be.
Karen added: “It is true we do pay reduced business rates and at times no rates at all. But this means that even more money goes towards providing care at the Hospice, for local people facing terminal illnesses. Most charity shops would still trade in North Staffordshire even if full business rates were charged – it would just mean that less of the profits would go to help local people.
“As we are recognised as a not for profit business, gifting our surplus to the Hospice, the less rates we pay, the more care we can give for more local people. Our patients and their families benefit from reduced business. We would like to thank the local councils for recognising the worth of our organisation to the local community.”
Help to Provide Precious Care by Giving Gold to the DMH
26 February 2010, Faye Johnson
On Monday 1st March, the Douglas Macmillan Hospice will launch its ‘Give Gold...Provide Precious Care’ promotion.
The Hospice is asking people to donate any unwanted or scrap gold so that this can then be turned into valuable funds. This will mean that the Hospice can continue to provide care to people suffering from life-limiting illnesses, such as cancer, across North Staffordshire.
Yvonne Colclough, Hospice Retail Shops Manager said: “We do thank all our supporters for their donations to date and hope that they will support us yet again in this ‘Give Gold’ promotion.”
Donations of unwanted or scrap gold can be taken to any of the Douglas Macmillan’s 14 shops or to the Hospice itself.
Start off 2010 in style with the DMH New Year Draw
21 December 2009, Faye Johnson
There is still time to enter the 2010 Douglas Macmillan New Year Lottery Draw. The top prize is £2,010 – just imagine what a great start to the new year that would be.
Don’t fret if you’re not the lucky winner, there is a second prize of £1,000 and third prize of £200 up for grabs. Tickets cost £1 each and are available from any of the Hospice’s shops or the Lottery Department.
Donna Adams, Lottery Promotions and Development Manager, said: “Our special prize draw is a great way of supporting the Hospice, which is renowned for the care it gives to around 1,700 people suffering from cancer and other life limiting illness.
“Last year, the New Year Draw raised over £70,000 for patient care and we do hope that we can beat this figure this year.”
Please contact the Lottery Department on 01782 344321 if you require tickets. All tickets for the draw must be returned by 8th January 2010 and the winning numbers will be drawn on 27th January. Good luck!
End of an era for Hanley Hospice Charity Shop
4 December 2009, Faye Johnson
The first Douglas Macmillan Hospice Charity Shop, situated in Piccadilly, Hanley, opened back in 1993. However, its lease ends this month and the shop has now closed its doors to the public.
Since 1993, 14 more Hospice shops have opened in various locations across North Staffordshire. These include Alsager, Biddulph, Cheadle, Chesterton, Kidsgrove, Leek, Longton, Meir, Newcastle, Silverdale, Stoke and Tunstall.
Yvonne Colclough, Retail Operations Manager, said: “We would like to thank all our customers and supporters who donated goods and shopped with us over the last 15 years.
“We have also been fortunate to have the support of many volunteers, who have worked in the shop over this time too. We have raised a lot of money over the years for the Hospice – thank you to everyone - together we have made the shop a great success.”
‘Saunter into Christmas with the Dougie Mac’
2 December 2009, Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has already had hundreds of people register for this year’s sponsored Santa Saunter.
The event, which will take place on Saturday 19th December at 11am, at Trentham Estate, in Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent. It is a great opportunity for everyone to get together with family and friends and let the festive spirit takeover.
The entry fee is £10, which covers a team of four Santas. We look forward to seeing all participants in full Santa gear!
The Saunter, which begins at the Visitors Centre in the heart of Trentham’s Retail Village, has two routes. The first of these goes to the Lakeside Cafe and back, and is suitable for anyone travelling by pushchair or wheelchair. The second route is more of a challenge as it goes around the lake and may require some specialist footwear – wellies!
At the end of the walk, Prancer’s Playground awaits all of the boys and girls who took part. There will be lots of things to do here, such as face painting, carol singing, model making and colouring in. Santa Claus will also be popping in to give them all a present as a way of saying thank you for fundraising for the Hospice.
Zoe Hollingsworth, Senior Fundraising Development Manager for the Douglas Macmillan, said: “Last year’s event raised £10,000 for the Hospice, and judging by the entries already received, we hope that we can beat this figure this year.”
It isn’t too late to enter. Contact the Fundraising Team on: 01782 344304 or go online to www.dmhospice.org.uk for further details.
Tin Can Man's Cracker of a Christmas
25 November 2009, Faye Johnson
We recently announced that the much-loved ‘Tin Can Man’, John Leese, was coming out of retirement in order to help the Douglas Macmillan Hospice to boost their desperately needed funds.
John began his Christmas Appeal at the Potteries Shopping Centre last week. During those first three days, he amazingly managed to raise over £1,000 for the Hospice.
He said: “I am delighted that I have managed to raise this amount of money in my first week back in the Shopping Centre. People have been so pleased to see me again, and of course, they have been very generous with their donations.”
John will be at the Potteries Centre during the run up to Christmas on the following dates: 26th, 27th and 28th November, 10th, 11th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December.
However, if you would like to make a donation to his Christmas Appeal online, go to:
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is thrilled to announce that Trentham Gardens will be playing host to a special VIP guest once again this year.
Father Christmas will be taking up residence in the delightful Christmas Cottage, which is situated in the grounds of Trentham Gardens, from Saturday 21st November. Here, as well as hearing what youngsters would like for Christmas, he will be able to do some last minute wrapping before the big day.
If you know of any boys and girls who have been good this year, let them experience the magic of Christmas by coming to the cottage between 11am and 4pm each weekend until 20th December.
Each child who visits will receive a free gift from Father Christmas and also get the chance to have a photograph taken with him. Pictures, which will be taken by Eventers Photography, will be available at an additional cost and be ready to take away in minutes. From each photograph ordered, the company will make a donation to the Hospice.
Tickets cost £5 each and can be purchased on the day of your visit from the Customer Services Desk at Trentham Gardens. All the proceeds from these ticket sales are being donated to the Douglas Macmillan.
Tin Can Man is back
28th October 2009, Faye Johnson
John Leese, better known as the ‘Tin Can Man’, is coming out of retirement in order to help raise some desperately needed funds for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
He first started fundraising for the Hospice in memory of his wife, Olwyn, and then began collecting in the Hanley area 17 years ago, and became a well-known face amongst locals. John retired back in February, after raising an amazing £350,000.
Now however, he has decided to make a welcome return to his usual spot in the Potteries Shopping Centre from 12th November.
John said: “I have thought long and hard about whether I should comeback to help. I have read that the Hospice, like many other charities, is experiencing a shortfall in donations and I am sure that my dear wife Olwyn would have wanted me to help in any way that I could at this time.”
Karen Rose, the Douglas Macmillan’s Director of Fundraising, added: “It is absolutely magnificent that John has decided to help us again.
“As we keep saying we are working our way through this recession only thanks to the generosity of our supporters. John is a shining example of why we are coping. Without his willingness to help along with the many thousands of people across North Staffordshire who assist too, we would not be able to maintain our care services.”
On Friday 9th October, the Douglas Macmillan Hospice is inviting their supporters to hold a Coffee Morning in order to raise some much-needed funds.
The Coffee Morning can take place anywhere – at home, school or work. Wherever you choose to sup on your cuppa, rest assured that every penny you raise will help support people who face terminal illnesses, such as cancer, and their families.
One local business is turning the Dougie Mac’s Coffee Morning into a week-long event. Duncan Cowans Hairdressers, based in Cheadle Shopping Centre, are inviting customers and residents into the salon for a coffee in return for a donation to the Hospice.
Duncan said: “Supporting the Hospice is always something we have done – it has been my charity for the past 34 years.” He has also been personally involved with the Hospice, as his mum, Sheila, died of cancer three years ago whist in the care of Douglas Macmillan Nurses.
Duncan added: “They were wonderful with my mum before she died and I do hope that as many people as possible will be able to pop in and make a donation to what is a fantastic local charity.”
If you would like to organise a Coffee Morning for the Hospice, you can register your support by emailing fundraising@dmhospice.org.uk or call 01782 344304.
Dougie Mac not recession proof – ‘Please Give Now’
Summer 2009 - Douglas Macmillan Hospice
Dougie Mac not recession proof – ‘Please Give Now’
Local adult Hospice, Douglas Macmillan, are feeling the pinch of the recession. Donations for the first quarter of this financial year are down more than £100.000. It costs just under £20,000 a day to run all care services either in patients own homes or at the Hospice in Blurton. We want to make sure we are back on track so are looking to raise £100k
Karen Rose Director of Fundraising said “We are working our way through the recession thanks in the main to the wonderful support of donors, fundraisers, lottery players and all those who shop with us. But we are seeing a drop in donations in some areas. We are doing all we can to ensure the care services that local people have come to depend on are maintained we are being as cost conscious as ever – our priority is, as always, to ensure our patients and their families receive the very best of care as they face the realities of a terminal illness such as cancer”
“We are not recession proof and we do need to let people know that we need their support and donations more than ever. Our month long Summer Campaign is asking people to please give now. Either by going on line www.dmhospice.org.uk or ringing our hot line 01782 344304. “
The Hospice are also asking companies across the area to FILL AND FUND! Simply as a boss or an employee get a container and circulate it around everyone in the business making helping the Hospice a team effort – a little from a lot of people will make all the difference.
Rudyard Lake Walk for Debbie Chandler
5 August 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
Former hospital worker, Debbie Chandler, passed away at the Douglas Macmillan Hospice in February this year. The 38-year-old mother of one died due to having rare malignant tumours known as Sarcoma.
Debbie’s husband, Eric, and sister-in-law, Lyn, decided to organise a sponsored walk around Rudyard Lake as a way of thanking the Hospice for the care that she received. The event took place back in March and was well supported.
At present, the pair have raised an amazing £9,762, for the Douglas Macmillan. However it is hoped that, with the outstanding monies, the final amount will be in excess of £11,000.
Peter Keller, PR and Media Officer for the Hospice, said: “We would like to thank Eric, Lyn and their friends for raising such a fantastic amount of money for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice. The money will go to ensure that the care we currently give to around 1,700 patients who suffer from terminal illness such as cancer is maintained.”
“The Hospice has experienced a drop in donations in the first quarter of the financial year of about £100,000, so the money raised from this walk will certainly help us to make up the deficit.”
If, like Eric and Lyn, you would like to organise an event or make a donation to the Hospice, you can do this either by contacting the Fundraising Team on: 01782 344304 or by going online at: www.dmhospice.org.uk.
Former nurse and social worker, Anne Gater, was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 1997.
30 July 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
After this diagnosis, the mother of one from Bradeley, Stoke-on-Trent, received Radio and Chemotherapy at North Staffs Hospital. She felt fine following this, but took a turn for the worst again in 2007.
Anne underwent various tests and scans; these indicated that she had cancer once again, only now it was in her spine, liver and right lung. Her health deteriorated further last August when it was discovered that she also had Lymphoedema in both of her legs. It was at this point that Palliative Care Nurse Specialist, Kathy Nicholl, suggested that Anne was referred to the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
Anne said: “I was very upset about this, because I always thought that by coming to the Hospice, people never come out alive.”
On her first day in the In-Patient Unit (IPU) at the Hospice, Anne was rushed into hospital due to having fluid in her lung. It was thought that the fluid might have accumulated around her heart and she remained in hospital for a further 10 days.
Anne continues: “I was lucky enough to come back to the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and I was looked after wonderfully by the staff on the Red Team in the IPU.”
Staff Nurse, Margaret Roberts, adds: “When Anne first came to the Hospice, she was extremely anxious and frightened. A great deal of psychological and emotional as well as physical support was necessary.”
After a brief stay on the IPU, Anne returned home and continued to receive support from the Occupational Therapist, as well as other members of the Hospice’s multi-disciplinary team. In November 2008, Anne received a call inviting her to attend the Day Hospice once a week.
Anne says: “From day one, despite my diagnosis, I have received so much love and support from so many people here at the Douglas Macmillan. I certainly would not be alive today without such wonderful care.”
“My first fears of never coming out of the Hospice alive were quickly dispelled and it does show that despite being very poorly, I am able to maintain a good quality of life with the continuing support of the staff at Douglas Macmillan Hospice.”
Without donations from local individuals and businesses, the Hospice cannot provide the kind of care that Anne received. We are launching our month long campaign - ‘Please Give Now’, in which we are asking people to donate as much as they can during these difficult times.
If you would like to make a donation to the Hospice, you can do this either by contacting the Fundraising Team on: 01782 344304 or by going online at: www.dmhospice.org.uk.
Ladies Night
30 July 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
Ladies, this Thursday put on your best outfit and head over to Ikon Café Bar for a night of girly fun.
The team at Ikon, in Hassell Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, are donating the door cost from their Ladies Night, which is £5 per person, to the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
The event, which is taking place on Thursday 6th August at 7.30pm and will go on until midnight, has a variety of girly activities on offer. These include an Ann Summers party, complementary wine tasting and treatments from professional beauticians. Entertainment will also be provided by local dance group, Pole Fit.
The Douglas Macmillan recently launched its ‘Please Give Now’ campaign, asking local individuals and businesses to donate as much as they can afford during the onslaught of the credit crunch.
Organiser of the event, Dan Maddox, said: “We saw the Douglas Macmillan’s appeal in The Sentinel for fundraising and also, on a personal level, my girlfriend’s Grandma gets palliative care from the Hospice, so the money is going to a good cause in that respect as well.”
PR and Media Officer for the Douglas Macmillan, Peter Keller, added: “We are extremely grateful to Dan for organising this event for the Hospice. Donations are down for the first quarter of this financial year and we do need support such as this from supporters who wish to help in this way.”
If, like Dan, you would like to organise an event or make a donation to the Hospice, you can do this either by contacting the Fundraising Team on: 01782 344304 or by going online at: www.dmhospice.org.uk.
Vintage Bikes take part in the Dougie Mac Bike Ride 2009
23 June 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
Cycling enthusiast, Tilly Eastwood, believes that the old bikes are still the best.
Her interest in cycling began when she was given a 1974 Raleigh bike as a gift from a friend. Over time, the back wheel of the bike began to buckle, so Tilly looked on eBay for a replacement, but discovered that it would be cheaper to purchase another old bike.
Tilly placed bids on three bikes in the hope of winning one of them, but ended up winning all of them for the bargain price of £12. She then set to work on sprucing them up.
She said: “I repaired my original bike then saw what a beautiful bike the very rusty one was. I got it new inner tubes, and removed some of the rust, not too much as that would take away from its character.”
Her fondness of cycling is still thriving, as she recently took part in the Dougie Mac Bike Ride with a work colleague and they both rode on more mature bikes.
Tilly admits: “We did spend the whole ride being overtaken by fancy modern bikes.”
Great idea by local company to support Douglas Macmillan Hospice
written by Faye Johnson
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice is being tickled pink by donations from hygiene company B Hygienic.
The new campaign, which is the brainchild of the company’s Managing Director, Vicki Allen, gives five pounds to cancer hospices and charities each time a pink bin is requested. The inspiration for the pink bins came from when Vicki’s close friend, who was also hr boss, died of ovarian cancer in 2007.
So far, the campaign has had positive feedback including support from celebrities such as Katie Price, Anthea Turner and Paula Radcliffe.
Vicki said: “I think it is such a different idea that whereas in the past people have been concerned with the aesthetics in a washroom, this is now giving them a new perspective and also creates a caring image.”
It is a health and safety requirement that sanitary disposal units are provided in washrooms. If your company is interested in joining the campaign, call B Hygienic on 01782 644788.
Author pledges support from sales of the 'Crooked Sea'
24 April 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
Debut author, Trevor Raistrick, is donating the proceeds from the launch of his new book, The Crooked Sea, to The Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
The inspiration for the book came from Trevor’s Aunt, Mary. She wanted to find out more about her Grandfather, who mysteriously disappeared from Morcambe Bay and was feared dead. Despite this, she, along with other family members, always believed that he was alive.
Although Mary provided a lot of information, Trevor researched further into this part of his family history and was so intrigued that became inspired to write his own story based loosely on these events. Trevor said: “Suddenly I thought here is the plot for a book and I’ve always wanted to write a book.”
Set in 1899, The Crooked Sea tells the story of Walter Clough, a travelling salesman who is thought to have died after walking far out onto Morcambe Bay. The book delves into Walter’s early life, and progresses to the quandary that he faces at present.
It took Trevor almost a year to put the book together, and after struggling to sell it the first time around, he joined writing groups and met an ex-lecturer from Keele University who helped him to approach a smaller publisher, Bank House Books.
As well as this venture, Trevor has also embarked on other Douglas Macmillan related projects. These include a walk across Morcambe Bay in July 2008, which raised £288 and a collaboration with a Leek based writers group, which involved making a book of short stories. This project raised over £300.
The book launch will be taking place on the 7th May at 6.30pm at Holcroft Mazda, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent. Those invited to attend the launch have been asked to make a donation to the Douglas Macmillan in exchange for a copy of The Crooked Sea. Along with the raffle and the donation from Holdcroft Mazda, it is hoped that the launch will raise £200.
Trevor added “If it can help Douglas Macmillan along the way that for me is very important. Perhaps I can raise £1,000 in the next year.”
For more information about Trevor’s book and his future releases, visit his website at: www.thecrookedsea.com. To find out how you could help the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, go to their website at www.dmhospice.org.uk or phone the fundraising team on 01782 344304.
The Robert Bickerton Foundation Pledge support during 2009
16 April 2009 - written by Faye Johnson
The Robert Bickerton Foundation is the latest organisation to pledge its support to the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.
The foundation was set up in 2006 in memory of Robert Bickerton, who died in a road accident in 1999. Members of the Bickerton family, who volunteer their services, as their main aim is to keep Robert’s memory alive, run it.
Since January 2007, the foundation has been supporting various charities by donating the proceeds from their events. These charities include the Donna Louise Trust and the County Air Ambulance. They also raised money for Ellie Mae Mellor, who suffers from severe meningitis, this helped he to get much-needed equipment and hospital treatment.
This year, the Foundation is donating the proceeds from its events to the Douglas Macmillan. These events will include a charity cricket match at Moddershall Cricket Club, the Stone 10k and 5k fun run which takes place at St Michael’s School on June 21st.
Alan Bickerton, Roberts father told us why they chose to support Douglas Macmillan: “It’s local and it’s done a good job for a lot of local people and most people are very aware of the work that’s done. Whatever we raise during 2009, the proceeds of that will go to the Douglas Macmillan.”
For more information about the events being run by the Robert Bickerton Foundation, go to their website www.robertbickerton.com. To find out more about the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, visit their website at www.dmhospice.org.uk.
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has already had hundreds of people register for this year’s sponsored Santa Saunter.
