Community Archives - Page 6 of 16 - East Cheshire Hospice

Christmas Tree Collection 2023 success!

Wind and rain did not deter volunteers who turned the East Cheshire Hospice tree collection into another major triumph.

More than 6,000 trees were collected last weekend in what is believed to be the largest scheme of its kind in the world.

Around £150,000 was raised as more than 250 volunteers staged a military-style operation to collect Christmas trees in a fleet of vans.

Volunteers ready to start the Christmas tree collection.

Richard Raymond, co-founder of the scheme, said: “What another amazing effort! Every year we are so lucky to get such an incredible response to our appeal from the public.

“That support comes from dedicated volunteers who always answer our call for help and those who continue to make generous donations.

“This year has been particularly hard due to the cost of living crisis, yet we still managed to raise as much as we have done in the last few years.

Helping hands… catering volunteers (from left) Sunflower Wellbeing Centre manager Helen Henshaw, Clinical Director Sandra Jones, Medical Director Dr Debbie Alexander and Trustee Louise Haughton.

“We have a long list of sponsors as well, led by AstraZenaca, who loyally stick by us and we must say a special thank you to them.”

The scheme has raised a staggering £1.65m in 23 years.

Volunteers over the two days included Hospice staff and workers at the Ansa recycling plant in West Park.

Christmas tree scheme co-founders Richard Raymond (left) and Pete Chapman.

A mulching machine operated by CRJ Recycling, from Allostock, turned trees into compost, complying with the Hospice’s on-going eco initiatives.

Two traditions returned after a Covid-enforced absence.

The Mulchers Arms, a makeshift canteen for refreshments, reopened at the recycling plant, while a post-event drink at the Cock and Pheasant pub in Bollington also made a welcome return.

Tree collectors (from left) Tony Browne, Spike Elliott and wife Helen.

Volunteers taking part included Harry Whittaker, whose dad Clive played a key role in the route planning for collection vans, using sophisticated software.

Early starters on collection rounds were husband and wife Spike and Helen Elliott, from Broken Cross, whose crew included Tony Browne, from Macclesfield. The trio are all regulars on the volunteering front.

Ansa depot recyclers playing their part in the tree collection scheme.

Volunteer Harry Whittaker collects the first tree from East Cheshire Hospice.

Volunteers at Christmas Tree Collection

Volunteers Rob and Marion BoSmith have a unique claim to fame in the long history of collecting trees in aid of East Cheshire Hospice.

The Bollington couple picked up a symbolic tree that saw the fundraising scheme smash through the £1m barrier in 2019.

They only discovered their historic role in the tree collection scheme when they returned to the recycling plant at West Park late one afternoon.

Rob said: “We drove back to the plant and the first thing we knew was when everyone started screaming and shouting. Photographs were taken as champagne was sprayed over the van.

“It was pure coincidence that we happened to be the people who collected the tree which took the total beyond the £1m mark.”

Youngest daughter Astrid with Rob and Marion during the 2017 collection which was re-arranged due to snow. Astrid stood in for sister Imogen who had travelled from London for the original date.

Rob and Marion will be out and about again with fellow volunteers over the weekend of January 14/15 when the next collection takes place.

It is not too late to register. Visit www.echtrees.org.uk.

The couple will be joined by one of their three daughters, Imogen, who has volunteered before.

Rob, a helper for 15 years, will carry his chainsaw and cutters to trim any large trees.

Marion, a more recent recruit, said: “There’s an amazing sense of camaraderie. It’s a pleasure to be involved.

Rob BoSmith, a veteran of the East Cheshire Hospice Christmas tree recycling scheme.

“Everyone bends over backwards to be helpful, including those serving food, the van crews and staff at the Ansa plant who’re wonderful.

“They’re safety conscious and take the trees from us, while braving the elements all day.

“Everyone is buzzing all day as we exchange messages on WhatsApp about how we’re getting along.”

The scheme has raised more than £1.5m in 22 years. Post codes covered are CW12, SK9, SK10, SK11, SK12 and WA16.

The event is sponsored by local businesses, including main sponsors AstraZeneca, meaning all donations go straight to the Hospice.

Rob said: “We’ve been to all sorts of places. Despite living here for 42  years, we’re still discovering places we never knew existed. Everyone is so helpful if we can’t find a particular house.”

The couple met at the Wellcome Research Laboratories in Kent before moving to Bollington, running a corner shop attached to their home for eight years.

They both worked at AstraZeneca, Rob leaving to teach IT at Macclesfield College.

Marion said: “It didn’t take us long to get over any homesickness. It’s much nicer up here, where we’re part of a lovely community.”

Review of the year 2022

Another year packed with special memories at East Cheshire Hospice draws to a close.

The Hospice once again put patients at the heart of its activities.

Patients and visitors can enjoy a Serenity Garden created in a courtyard outside the inpatient ward.

Volunteers turned out in force to help with planting, aiming to make a garden look good all-year round.

Volunteer gardener Deborah Roberts with garden designer Ben Darlington (left) and landscaper Mark Marshall. 

From left, Chair of the Hospice’s Trustee Board Will Spinks, Andy Burnham and Hospice Chief Executive Karyn Johnston.

There was also an environmental emphasis, a recurring theme throughout 2022 for the Hospice.

Installing solar panels will hopefully reduce energy costs, while reducing food waste was another eco initiative.

Scores of families basked in early spring sunshine at a Memory Miles walk at Adlington Hall.

One of the first post-Covid events saw walkers undertook a one-kilometre woodland loop of the beautiful grounds. Look out for details in the New Year about a similar walk.

The weather was not so kind for a Pie and a Pint challenge over a 10k route in heavy rain, while firefighter Adam Davies chose a flaming hot day to tackle a gruelling golf challenge.

The keen golfer played 72 holes over 15 hours at Shrigley Hall Hotel and Spa.

Firefighter Adam Davies during his epic golf challenge.  

One of many fundraisers who went to extraordinary lengths to raise funds.

Brothers Tom and George Bentham paddled a canoe from one side of the country to the other in memory of their late father Mark, a chef and sailor.

Canoeing brothers Tom (left) and George Bentham.

Their bizarre challenge took nine days, while round-the-world sailor Heather Broadbent spent almost three years on her voyage due to pandemic delays.

Thankfully, services at the Sunflower Wellbeing Centre are fully back to normal after the disruption.

Popular group sessions such as Live Well Feel Well and a range of dementia programmes are meeting community needs.

The Hospice strengthened its dementia team this year due to an increase in demand.

Its Hospice @Home service proudly celebrated its fifth anniversary in October.

Hospice @Home staff (from left) Sally Heaven, Helen Singleton and Gill Tomlinson.  

The service has been an outstanding success, with a six-strong team expanding to 25.

A patient who lost her hair inspired health care assistant Elaine Taylor to shave her head to raise funds and show her support.

Art Fair Cheshire was also back, showcasing the region’s finest creative talent.

Art teacher Patty Callaghan who was among exhibitors at Art Fair Cheshire 2022.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, visited the Hospice. He passionately supports the Hospice sector and the holistic care it provides.

James Hurley Hospice fundraiser

The sight of Star Wars baddy Kylo Ren circling White Nancy must have frightened a few walkers enjoying a weekend stroll.

Alas there was nothing to fear from a different galaxy.

It was James Hurley dressed as the fictional character raising funds for East Cheshire Hospice where his mum Sharon works.

Fundraiser James Hurley enjoying the view from White Nancy.  

Star Wars fan James walked to the top carrying a collection bucket before completing 50 circuits of the monument.

The nine-year-old’s efforts raised £312, well above his initial £200 target.

Walkers donated, along with friends and family, including sister Emma (13).

Class mates and teachers at St Alban’s Catholic Primary School, where he is in year five, also supported his adventure.

Sharon is the sister at the Sunflower Wellbeing Centre.

She said: “It was James’ idea to walk round White Nancy. With me working at the Hospice, he just decided one day that he wanted to raise money for the Hospice.

May the force be with you…James as Star Wars character Kylo Ren.

“I’m really proud and quite touched that he wanted to do it.  I don’t talk too much about my work, but he knows I look after poorly people.

“Walkers were clapping James as he walked back down through Bollington village after completing his journey. He’s always loved Star Wars and has plenty of costumes.”

St Alban’s have also held cake sales as part of their support for the Hospice.

Unmasked….James sports his East Cheshire Hospice top.    

* Any supporters wishing to fundraise for the Hospice can email fundraising@echospice.org.uk

Christmas Handmade Goods 2022

Volunteers at East Cheshire Hospice have been like Santa’s elves getting ready for Christmas.

More than 50 helpers use their creative skills designing handmade goods for East Cheshire Hospice.

It is not too late to grab a bargain, with a selection of festive items on sale at the Hospice reception.

The handiwork generates £18,000 during the year for the Hospice.

Volunteer Hilary Berkin with her handmade items.

Community fundraising assistant Claire Gorton said: “We’re so grateful volunteers choose to use their creative skills to support us.

“Some sell their handmade goods to family and friends and donate the proceeds, while others donate items for sale at our reception.

“We receive items such as crocheted teddies to knitted blankets, fabric tote bags, wooden toys and unique beautiful jewellery.

“We’ve a range of Christmas stockings, tree decorations, knitted scarves and hats, chocolate orange characters and stocking fillers.

Claire wants work or community groups willing to sell handmade goods, especially cards and seasonal items, to contact her.  Email cgorton@echospice.org.uk

She said: “Grief Bears are made for our inpatient unit, while Pairs of Hearts are used within childhood bereavement and our Hospice @Home service.

“One heart is placed in the hand of the deceased, while the other is given to their loved one.”

Volunteer Hilary Berkin said: “I’m no runner or ace cake baker, so decided to put my love of quilting and sewing into making some items for the Hospice to sell to say thank you and to give something back.”

A yearly thank you event has been held for volunteers.

Claritas Choir this festive season

Claritas Choir are back performing live again after an enforced absence.

The East Cheshire Hospice singers staged their first performance in three years due to Covid.

They made their comeback in Congleton two weeks ago.

The choir are holding a concert at Macclesfield and Bollington United Reformed Church, Park Green, on Tuesday, December 13, at 7.30 pm.

The programme includes a number of the choir’s favourite songs, plus Christmas music, some of which will be in ‘sing-a-long’ format involving audience participation.

Members of Claritas choir hand over a cheque for £617 from their recent concert to East Cheshire Hospice. From left, Gail Robinson, Mike Baker, Sue Parker, Tessa Hughes, Ron Gould, Lorna Searls, Richard Johnson, Claire Gorton (Hospice fundraise), Anne Pillai, Kim Monaghan and Julie Dunsford.

Tickets, including refreshments, are £8 for adults and £5 for under 18s. They are available in advance from the Hospice reception and choir members, or on the door.

The choir will also be appearing at the Light Up A Life service for the Hospice at St Michael and All Angels Church this Saturday (Dec 3) at 4.30 pm.

The half-hour service is a chance to remember lost loved ones and is suitable for those of all faiths and none.  Tickets are not required and attendees should be there for 4 pm.

Committee member Marian Mackay said: “It’s good to be back in full swing after so long away.  It was incredibly difficult during Covid.  We did meet via Zoom, but it wasn’t the same as live  rehearsals.”

Over the last 10 years Claritas has raised in the region of £35,000 for the Hospice.

The Musical director is Kath Ibbotson, with Hilary Balsdon as accompanist.

Rehearsals are held on Monday evenings from 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm at the Silk Life Centre, George Street, Macclesfield.

New members are always welcome. For more details visit the website www.claritaschoir.com.

* The Hospice Christmas tree collection has already attracted more than 700 registrations before December.

The collection, sponsored by AstraZeneca,  is held the weekend of January 14/15.

Donors are asked to leave trees outside in an easily accessible location.

Business sponsorship covers costs so every penny donated goes directly to providing care for Hospice patients.

To register trees visit www.echtrees.org.uk.

* Learn how to make a Christmas wreath at Fold Yoga on Sunday, December 4 (2 pm- 6 pm).

The workshop is organised by floral designer Sarah Hinchliffe, who opened her business North & Flower in Macclesfield last year.

The venue is The Engine Rooms, Sunderland Street. The cost is £50, with 10 per cent of ticket fees going to the charity. All materials are provided. To book visit foldyogastudio.com

Christmas Tree Collection January 2023

The Christmas tree collection in aid of East Cheshire Hospice will be back to normal in January.

Registrations are now open, with organisers promoting the eco-friendly benefits of buying a real tree.

The event – over the weekend of January 14/15 – raised a record-equalling £150,000 for the Hospice last winter.

Unlike last year, Covid restrictions are not an issue for the 23rd year of the collection, which is believed to be the largest in the world!

More than £1.5m has been raised in that time, thanks to the generosity of donors and dozens of willing helpers.

Tree collectors in Broken Cross in 2022. James Chapman (left), brother Chris and Caitlin Howarth.

Volunteers will be collecting trees over East Cheshire and beyond. The post codes covered are CW12, SK9, SK10, SK11, SK12 and WA16.

The event is sponsored by local businesses, including main sponsors AstraZeneca, meaning all donations go straight to the Hospice. To register trees visit www.echtrees.org.uk.

Trees are recycled into mulch at the local Ansa Environmental Services plant before being industrially composted.

It is estimated that around 500 supporters have been donating Christmas trees regularly since the scheme began.

Organisers are hoping to mark that loyal dedication for the 25th anniversary of the project in 2025.

Co-founder Richard Raymond said: “It’s hard to believe that we’re about to reach our 23rd year of collecting Christmas trees for the Hospice.

“We wouldn’t have got this far without the generosity of owners of Christmas trees whose kind donations make such a difference to Hospice care.

“The funds raised are a significant contribution towards caring for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families and carers.

“It’s good to be back to normal again after the upheaval of the last couple of years.

“There are persuasive reasons why real trees are more eco friendly than plastic trees, most of which are manufactured in the Far East. These use low-grade plastics such as PVC which are almost impossible to recycle.

“We recycle every tree we collect into a soil improver for the benefit of Cheshire farmland.”

Collection vans will leave from the Hospice in staggered starts like last year.

Potted trees will also be collected. Richard said: “We collected about 20 last time and have someone who will grow them on to be sold next year as Christmas trees in aid of the Hospice.”

Flashback to January and Christmas tree collectors (from left), Steve Bower, Gary Richards and son Criss.

The Cinema Show

Mixing music with memories is the key to success for family band The Cinema Show.

The synth rock group blend sound and film archives – played on an old-style theatre cinema screen – with songs to create a unique show.

The electronic group, based in Macclesfield, rounded off a series of gigs with a charity show at MADS Theatre, raising £1,742 for East Cheshire Hospice.

The Cinema Show performing. From left, Dave Skelton, Jacqui Skelton, Beth Moss, Amy Leech and Doug Skelton.

It included a look back at the London 2012 Olympics, the Festival of Britain in 1951 and the Manhattan Project.

Founder Doug Skelton, a guitarist and keyboard player, usually performs as a duo, with Dave Skelton on drums.

Added to the line-up for this show were Doug’s older sister Jacqui, old school friend Amy Leech and local musician Beth Moss.

Dave Skelton and Doug Skelton.

Main sponsors were Intersafety, owned by Doug’s parents Tony and Julie. The 20-year-old local company distributes personal protective equipment and clothing. Arighi Bianchi were the other sponsors.

The Cinema Show bring moments of historical significance to the stage.

Doug said: “I’ve been working on the project for five years since a music tech project sparked the inspiration.

“We mix historical samples and commentary with modern music and lyrics, creating the songs.

A few years ago we acquired a cinema screen for the stage backdrop.”

Doug’s first album This Is the One featured famous sporting events, including the 1966 World Cup and Red Rum’s Grand National triumphs. His second Discovery was about inventions of the last century.

Dave and Doug as a duo perform a track about Eddie the Eagle.

He is currently working on a new project based around 1980s nostalgia. He said: “It was nice to evolve our gigs to a larger band set-up for this show.

“It’s always been a passion and something we really enjoy. My sister got roped in on acoustic guitar after watching rehearsals. On vocals were Amy and Beth, who also plays piano.”

Doug works in marketing for Intersafety, who are keen Hospice supporters. He said:  “All the family have had a connection to the Hospice in the past and two family members were patients there.

“It’s a nice way to engage with the community and have a charity the business can support. The Hospice will stay in the mind of our charity efforts.

“The band and sponsors want to thank everyone who contributed to an amazing night at MADS Theatre where we hope to perform again.”

* Follow the band via www.facebook.com/cinemashowlive

www.instagram.com/thecinemashowlive/

www.open.spotify.com/artist/3gqriKaUbXfyC6lb6nVcPR?si=8aBsc3FjSR-gM-SHg_xQ6A

Canoe Against Cancer Afternoon Tea (postponed)

Please note that this event has been postponed with a new date pending.

An afternoon tea is being organised to give two brothers a rousing send-off before their amazing canoe challenge.

Tea, cakes and a glass of fizz will be served at Hollin House Hotel, Bollington, at noon on Sunday (Aug 21).

The gathering, which is open to the public, will toast Tom and George Bentham and wish them bon voyage for their 184-mile paddle almost three weeks later.

Aiming high…canoeists George and Tom Bentham are hoping to raise £15,000 for charity.

Proceeds will go towards the brothers’ fundraising appeal for East Cheshire Hospice where their father Mark, a chef, died of cancer in September, 2019, aged 58.

They hope to raise £15,000, with funds split with Macmillan.

The brothers are aiming to canoe coast-to-coast in nine days. They start at Glasson Dock, near Lancaster, ending at the Humber.

Canals, commercial waterways, small rivers, tidal rivers and seaways all feature in the complex route.

The pair had never sat in a canoe until they bought a two-man vessel earlier this year.

The informal afternoon tea is organised by Tom’s wife Hannah. She said: “Tom and George will give a brief outline of their challenge. They’ve done a lot of training and have been extremely dedicated.”

Two young singers will provide entertainment. Tickets are £25 for adults, £20 for children. For more details contact Hannah on 07964 701027.

Tom Bentham getting ready for his canoe challenge.

Prestbury Golf Day success!

A golf day with a long-standing tradition easily achieved its target of meeting the cost of a day’s care at East Cheshire Hospice.

The event at Prestbury Golf Club raised a record £10,910 net, well above the £7,500 the charity needs daily to run its services.

East Cheshire Hospice community fundraiser Carley Macey (second left), receives a cheque from golf organisers (from left) Nigel Preston, John Davies, Vicky Devon and  Mandy Cross.

At stake was the 35-year-old Mactex Trophy which had not been won for three years due to the pandemic.

However, the stableford team competition returned in style with 21 teams taking part.

It was again organised by John Davies, Director of Mactex Properties Ltd, and ex-golf professional Nigel Preston, from Interflex.

John, who was involved in the first tournament, said: “It was great to be back and we’d like to thank everyone for their generous support.

“The valuable work of East Cheshire Hospice, a facility at the heart of our community, continued unabated during the pandemic so it was wonderful to support the charity.

“Our aim was to raise at least the amount the Hospice needs each day, while having an enjoyable day’s golf and dinner we achieved all those aims, with many familiar supporters supporting the charity.

“Volunteers and contributors helped make it such a successful  day and in particular, we’d like to thank Amanda Cross, director of Sphere UK, Claire Gorton and Carley Macey from the Hospice, Victoria Devon and our main sponsors estate agents Holmes Naden.”

Ethics Leisure won with 89 points, four clear ahead of Martin Allmand-Smith’s team and Arighi Bianchi 1.