On Saturday 9th March, we welcomed over 40 guests into the hospice for the ever popular ‘Hoy the Kettle On’ event and a fabulous time was had by all.
Now in its 5th year, this fundraising event is organised by members of our Northumberland Volunteer Committee Eleanor, Amanda and Eileen, with help from hospice volunteers Bryan, Robert, Claire and Helen.
Hoy the Kettle On saw our hospice Focus on Living Centre transformed into a spring-themed celebration, where guests enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea made by the volunteers. Entertainment was provided by Peter, Jim and Patsy from local band Taking Care of Business, with singing very much encouraged! Lyric sheets were given our and everyone was in fine voice – there was even some dancing too!
Eleanor Anderson from the Northumberland Volunteer Committee said:
“The idea to form a committee came about because of a shared interest in putting on this type of afternoon tea-style event, and we could use our skills such as flower arranging, baking and cake decoration in a practical way, to support the Hospice.
For us, it’s just really lovely to be able to invite people into the Hospice. It helps people to see what the place is all about, and the difference it makes. It also helps break down some of the barriers people might have around what a Hospice is, so if they ever needed to be supported by St Oswald’s, there’s less anxiety because they’ve been able to see what it’s like.”
“The event was fantastic, with everyone enjoying the afternoon and feeling like it brightened up the weekend, given the gloomy grey weather lately.
There was enough cakes and sweet treats for everyone to be able to take something home to enjoy later on too!”
A huge thank you goes out to our Northumberland Volunteer’s Committee for planning and hosting another successful Hoy the Kettle on and raising over £1200 in support of our patients and their families. Thanks also to all of the volunteers who gave their time to help on the day, and to all of our guests who joined in the fun. We hope you had a brilliant time.
Check out some pictures from the day:
