Willow Wood Hospice has always had excellent links within the community and has just received two wonderful, but very different, donations.

Ian Saxon has long been a committed supporter and has raised many thousands with his birthday cycling challenges. This year he visited the Ashton-based hospice with £2,000 which he presented to Philip Millson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Mark Llewellin, Vice-chair and acting Head of Income Generation and Lisa Buckley, Community & Events Fundraiser.

Mark said: "We’re so very grateful to Ian for his continued support, and this was a very special year as he marked his retirement from his role as Director of Place at TMBC with a marathon cycle from Tameside to Rome! It was an amazing challenge and we’re very proud to accept this donation. Thank you.”

Willow Wood has many individuals who support the charity by raising funds like Ian, whether it be a cycle ride, taking part in a marathon or other personal challenge. However, local companies also play a part.

Hurst Accountants nominated the hospice as their Charity of the Year and have helped in so many different ways.

Staff have volunteered their time, spending a day in a number of the hospice's shops, at the distribution centre and in its offices. They’ve held raffles, book sales and are taking part in a variety of challenges, including a skydive, the Yorkshire Three Peaks, and Open Water Swim and more.  Now, they have donated a large quantity of computer screens which will be used throughout the hospice and its shops.

Mark said: “This most practical donation is very welcome. As we continue to develop and expand our services, we always need new equipment and the screens represent a huge saving for us. And I have to thank the whole team at Hurst Accountants for everything they have done for us over the past months, both in terms of financial and volunteer support. Their support makes a real difference to the lives of our patients and their families.”

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