Tel: 01453 886868
Cotswold Care Hospice
Burleigh Lane
Minchinhampton
Gloucestershire
GL5 2PQ
Latest news stories
Hospice fete - a grand day out
Alpacas and ferrets helped pull in record crowds at Cotswold Care Hospice’s annual fete.
Hundreds of people attended the event in the hospice grounds in Minchinhampton, raising thousands of pounds for the charity.
There were teas, cakes, crafts stalls and games but there was one clear crowd pleaser – the alpacas from The Alpaca Experience.
“I read about them and fell in love with them,” said Sue Brown who runs the Experience from her farm at Frampton Mansell.
Sheree and Mark Drake, from Whiteshill, brought their vintage car, a Stanley Steamer 1921 for the crowds to see.
The fete was the same day as Sheree’s late mother’s birthday. As the hospice supported the family, Sheree thought that attending the fete was a way for the family to say thank-you.
Stroud Brewery provided Grand in your Hand ale, named in honour of the hospice’s new weekly lottery which launches this autumn. Top prize will be £1,000 a week and it costs £1 to play.
“It was our best fete yet,” said Peter Rowbottom, head of fundraising. “We had hundreds of people here. It is too soon for us to say how much we raised but we are optimistic."
Cotswold Care helps doctor who is heading to Africa
A Dursley GP has teamed up with Cotswold Care Hospice to help people struggling with life-limiting illnesses in Africa.
Dr Kathy Curtis-Hayward will spend three months working at a district mission hospital in Tanzania.
She will support a team caring for people suffering from Aids-related illnesses and teaching palliative care skills, including the use of oral morphine in the community, which is new to Tanzania. She will leave for Africa next month.
Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world. Most of its people are subsistence farmers. The average life expectancy is 55 years and the country’s population has been ravaged by Aids.
It is best known for Africa's highest mountain – Kilimanjaro – and for the Serengeti, one of the most important nature reserves on Earth.
The 53-year-old GP based at May Lane Surgery came to Cotswold Care Hospice to learn complementary palliative care techniques, such as massage.
“The phrase ‘there is nothing that we can do’ is simply not the case, even in the most rural villages,” said Dr Curtis-Hayward. “I will look at how people can provide holistic care to relieve symptoms and support the patient’s spiritual, emotional and physical well-being.”
Dr Curtis-Hayward, who is volunteering with the Tear Fund, was thrilled when Cotswold Care offered to support her. She will mentor a team of health care workers who have had initial palliative care training. It will be a return trip for Dr Curtis-Hayward who spent time in Tanzania while studying medicine.
“It is one of the poorest countries in the world but it is also one of the most beautiful and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming,” she said. “I am looking forward to going back.”
Dr Curtis-Hayward will be based in Shirati near Lake Victoria. “I will spend a lot of time travelling around to villages where there are clinics and dispensaries. We will be looking at medical and non medical ways of relieving suffering,” she said.
“Cotswold Care has provided me with training in massage techniques to relieve pains and relax patients that I can teach people who may have no medical experience.”
“Palliative care depends largely on people rather than medical resources and will be vital in a country like Tanzania which has been decimated by Aids and other life-limiting illnesses, such as Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer which is a result of Aids.”
Sian Cole, head of care services at Cotswold Care, said: “We are delighted to provide practical support for Dr Curtis-Hayward. As a hospice we believe people should be treated with respect and dignity at all times and that death should be as peaceful as possible – regardless of where they live.”
Callowell pupils help hospice
July 10, 2010
Children at Callowell Primary sang, acted, jumped, did somersaults and ran - all to raise money in memory of former headteacher John Holmes.
The energetic youngsters raised £410 for Cotswold Care Hospice who supported Mr Holmes, who passed away in July 2009.
Celeste Harnden, a pupil in year six, said: “Sadly Mr Holmes died in 2009. We did a play for him called The Little Louisa that was a very emotional time as we knew he wasn’t very well. A few of the children took up the video to him. He really enjoyed it.”
The school’s gym club staged a gym display, went carol singing around the estate in Barrowfield Road, Stroud, and held a games day to raise money.
Callum Winstone, a pupil in year six, said: “Everyone got involved with the games day and took part. We raised £100 so that was really good.”
Callum and Celeste presented the cheque to Marianne Sweet, communications and PR manager from the hospice, during a school assembly.
“The children’s efforts are very humbling and truly amazing,” said Marianne. “It is such a touching tribute to Mr Holmes. Their efforts will pay to run the hospice for two hours, offering support to scores of people. That is an amazing achievement for a group of children. They are an inspiration to the grown-ups!”
Hospice named Business of the Year
July 1, 2010
Cotswold Care Hospice has been named business of the year in the Stroud Life Awards 2010.
Almost 300 people attended the glitzy award ceremony at the Whitminster Inn.
Eleven awards were presented with the hospice winning Business of the Year.
Chief Executive Marcus Green said: “We are thrilled to have won the award. It may seem odd to some as Cotswold Care Hospice is a charity. But as an organization employing more than 80 people and turning over than £2 million a year, it is vital we operate as a business and as efficiently as possible. That way we can provide more care to more patients.”
Log on to www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk to read more about the Stroud Life awards
Cotswold Midnight Walk 2010: Cirencester
Women dressed as Smurfs, bumble bees and fairies – not your average Friday night in Cirencester.
Under a warm moonlit night, 1,000 women took to the streets of the town for the Cotswold Midnight Walk.
They may have dressed in scores of different outfits and each had a personal reason for taking part but they were united in one cause – to raise as much money as they could for Cotswold Care Hospice.
And to have a great girls’ night out!
Rachael Jones, from Cheltenham, had a photograph of her stepdad Suresh Galal on the back of her T-shirt. Suresh passed away four months ago.
She was walking with her mum Heather and sister Rebecca. “Suresh went to the hospice and we wanted to do something special,” said Rachael.
School girl Chloe Stevenson, from Berkeley, turned walk into a birthday party as she celebrated her 18th.
Dressed in tiara, 18th birthday sash and lots of flashing lights, Chloe shouted as she set off: “It’s my birthday!”
It was a sea of flashing neon bunny ears as the ladies set off at midnight from Deer Park School through Cirencester Park.
Hundreds of volunteers donated their time to make the evening a success. Blushes hair salons sponsored the event providing rucksacks for all the walkers.
First to finish the walk was friends Patricia Ind and Charlotte Bignall, both of Cirencester. They were both dressed as bumble bees, complete with striped shirts and wings.
“We bought the outfits off eBay because we thought it would be fun,” said Charlotte. “It has been a great evening.”
Fitness instructor Rachael Hewitt walked with women from her fitness class at La Spa, Cirencester. “I lost my husband last year and when I said I was doing the walk all my ladies said they would do it with me.”
“We won’t know for a while how much the ladies raised in sponsorship but they have all been amazing,” said Vicki Hayward, senior events manager at the hospice. “This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and we simply couldn’t run the hospice without these amazing women.”
There will be a second Cotswold Midnight Walk in Gloucester on September 3. To register log on to: www.fancygirlsnightout.co.uk
Quiz Night, Marling School, Stroud
June 2010
Businesspeople put their general knowledge to the test to raise money for charity.
More than 160 people competed in the quiz held at Marling School in Stroud.
The event, sponsored by AES Winterbothams solicitors and Randall & Payne, raised more than £3,000 for Cotswold Care Hospice.
"It was a great evening and everyone said they enjoyed themselves," said Nigel Sherwood, property partner at AES Winterbothams. "This is the second year we have held the quiz and it is turning into an annual tradition.
The evening was organised by Catherine Green, of AES Winterbothams, and Rob Case, from Randall & Payne.
The quiz master was Clive Farahar, presenter of the BBC Antiques Roadshow.
"I would like to thank everyone who took part and helped us raise such a fantastic amount for the hospice, which helps so many people in our community," said Tim Watkins, partner for Randall & Payne.
Chloe celebrates her 18th - on the Midnight Walk
June 11. 2010
School girl Chloe Stevenson will start the Cotswold Midnight Walk at age 17 – and finish it at aged 18.
While most teenagers mark their 18th with parties and dances, Chloe is taking part in a 10-mile charity walk.
Her “birthday party” of 22 will join more than 1,000 women in Cirencester on Friday June 25. They will raise money for Cotswold Care Hospice.
The idea of the walk started when Joanne, Chloe’s mum, saw a Cotswold Midnight Walk leaflet. “It was the date that caught her eye,” said Chloe, who goes to Wycliffe College.
“We kept thinking up loads of different things we could do for my birthday that was personal but I had so many people I wanted to invite. So this is perfect. It’s something personal, different and will be loads of fun.”
Chloe (pictured left), who is taking her A-levels, is a massive fan of the film Dirty Dancing. So that is the party’s theme and Chloe’s walk T-shirt has been customized with a picture from Dirty Dancing and the phrase “Don’t put Chloe in the corner”.
“I am so excited about the walk. It is all my friends and I talk about now,” she said. “I know Mum has lots of little surprises for me.”
Chloe, who lives in Berkeley, and her friends hope to raise more than £1,000 for Cotswold Care Hospice. “My gran has cancer and we did think about her moving to Gloucestershire to be with us. If she had moved here Cotswold Care would have been a place where she could get help.
“I wanted to do something for charity and I really like Cotswold Care. It is great to be raising money for a local cause.”
Women must register in advance to take part in the Midnight Walk. The deadline for joining the Cirencester walk is Friday June 11.
There is a second walk on September 3 in Gloucester. Women can register online at www.fancyagirlsnightout.co.uk
May 28, 2010
Jenny joins walk - for her dad
Farmer Jenny Hyett has a very special reason to take part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk – her dad.
Cotswold Care Hospice at Home nurses helped her family fulfil dad Michael Gardner’s wish to spend his final days at home.
Now Jenny will join hundreds of women in the 10-mile Cotswold Midnight Walk to raise money for the hospice.
For the first time Cotswold Care Hospice will stage two walks – one in Cirencester on June 25 and one in Gloucester on September 3.
Jenny, owner of Pound Farm Shop in Whaddon, Gloucester, will take part with three friends.
Her father, Michael, who she described as a country man, died three years ago from cancer, at the age of 67. He had been retired only a few months before he was diagnosed.
“They (Hospice at Home nurses) came and stayed at night so mum could have a break,” said Jenny. “The nurses were so good the night he died. It was so important to have someone there for the back-up and support.”
Her mum Beryl agrees. “Michael hated hospitals and really wanted to die at home,” she said. “We were so fortunate that we were able to allow him to do so. The Hospice at Home nurses were lovely.
“During one of the nights, near the end, the nurses asked if I had a photo of Michael before he became ill. They said they wanted to see what he was like when he was well. They always took time to be with us and never hurried. I can’t thank them enough.”
To sponsor Jenny and the girls call 01452 523936 email poundfarmshop@yahoo.co.uk or pop into Pound Farm Shop, Whaddon, Gloucester.
To take part in the Midnight Walks, women must register in advance. They can do so online by logging on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
May 12, 2010
Cirencester College staff steps out for hospice
A team of women from Cirencester College are proving they are a top act when it comes to fundraising.
The 24 staff members have signed up to take part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk on June 25 at Cirencester.
“A few members of staff decided they would like to take part so I put a notice out asking if anyone else would like to join us,” said Nicola Oakley, one of women taking part.
“It just took off – in a few hours it went from a few staff being interested to 24 registering. We had a great response and I am hoping more staff will join us before the big day.”
More than 1,000 women have signed up to take part in the walk to raise money for Cotswold Care Hospice. The event starts and finishes at Deer Park School.
Women can register online to take part on www.fancyagirlsnightout.com . You cannot register on the night of the event.
Every year Cotswold Care Hospice helps more than 500 people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. All of its services are provided free of charge.
It costs £2.3 million every year to run the hospice – with 90 per cent of that amount coming from the community.
You can sponsor the Cirencester College staff by logging on to: www.justgiving.com/cirencester-college
May 3, 2010
Rickerbys LLP names hospice as charity of the year
Rickerbys LLP solicitors have named Cotswold Care Hospice as its charity of the year.
The Cheltenham firm celebrated the launch of their new charity fundraising year with a St George's Day themed lunch of sausage and mash for staff put on by their Charity and Social Committee.
Staff of the Wellington Street firm recently voted from a shortlist of 10 charities to elect Cotswold Care Hospice, based in Minchinhampton, as their chosen charity.
Anna Wood, Chair of the Charity and Social Committee said: "We are delighted to be raising money to help terminally-ill adults from Gloucestershire and we look forward to supporting Cotswold Care Hospice through dress down days, cake sales, raffles, sporting competitions and also by attending events organised by the charity themselves such as the Midnight Walks in June and September."
Marcus Green, Chief Executive of Cotswold Care Hospice, said: "We are so pleased to have the support of Rickerbys and its staff. Cotswold Care helps over 500 life-limited people each year in Gloucestershire and needs to raise £2.3 million every year to provide our care. We look forward to working with Rickerbys to enable us to give our clients the best possible support."
Over 50 staff attended the St George's Day lunch raising £94 for Cotswold Care Hospice with additional funds raised through a dress down day.
A further £114 was pledged by staff who wanted to see one of the Partners of the firm ride pillion on a colleague's motorbike. Rickerbys fundraising for Cotswold Care Hospice has got off to a fantastic start with over £250 already raised.
April 28, 2010
Holby City actress praises Midnight walkers
More than 1,000 women have signed up to take part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk.
Cotswold-based actress Tina Hobley has paid tribute to the women taking part in the event to raise money for Cotswold Care Hospice.
It is hoped that Tina, who stars in the BBC’s award-winning Holby City, will cheer on the girls before they set off from Deer Park School in Cirencester.
“Seeing so many women work together for a good cause is truly inspiring,” said Tina, who lives near Fairford with husband, PR director Oliver Wheeler, daughters Isabella and Olivia and son Orson.
“Their efforts to help Cotswold Care Hospice are amazing and I wish them all the best of luck.”
Tina plays ward sister Chrissie Williams in the BBC medical drama.
Vicki Hayward, senior events manager, said the charity was thrilled with number of women who have signed up and urged more to join them.
“It’s a great girls’ night out and we hope loads more ladies join us,” said Vicki. “Bring along your friends and turn it into a party with a real difference. Last year our women raised a staggering £150,000 in sponsorship. We want to set a new record this year.”
Cotswold Care Hospice, based in Minchinhampton, helps more than 500 people a year. All of its services are provided free of charge.
Women must register before the events. You can do so online by logging on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
April 28, 2010
On the big screen - and at Cotswold Care Hospice
A Stroud artist’s work has made it to the big screen in the new Robin Hood blockbuster.
Francesca Chalk created eight silk banners for the Ridley Scott film starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett.
“I have seen some photos with the banners in them,” said Francesca, who is based in Uplands. “We are planning a family outing to see the film. It’s so exciting to see the finished banners in context.”
Each of the banners was painstakingly created by Francesca and hand-stitched. They took the 42-year-old several weeks to create. They were based designed to represent the Plantagenet dynasty and fly on the ships of the French fleet.
Francesca was the winner of the Stroud District Council Arts award 2009. She won a £3,000 commission to create a textile hanging which is housed at Cotswold Care Hospice.
The public is invited to a special viewing evening at the hospice on May 25 from 6pm to 7.30pm to see Francesca’s work. The hospice is located in Burleigh Lane, Minchinhampton.
To see more of Francesca’s work log on to www.commonthreaddesign.co.uk
Teasels, by Francesca Chalk, at Cotswold Care Hospice
April 27, 2010
Blushes staff promote Midnight Walk
Co-owners Darrell and Mark Blake are offering a free £10 hair treatment for every Blushes customer who signs up.
The women-only 10-mile walk is Cotswold Care Hospice’s most important fundraising event of the year.
“We think it is such a terrific event that we want to encourage all our customers to sign up,” said Mark, who lives in Painswick. “Cotswold Care Hospice does such important work and help so many people.
“To encourage customers to take part, we are offering them a free hair treatment worth £10. New clients can also take up the giveaway by visiting Blushes and making an appointment for a free hair consultation and registering for the walk.
Staff at all three Blushes salons in Cirencester, Gloucester and Cheltenham, wore Cotswold Midnight Walk shirts to promote the event.
To take part in the Midnight Walk, women must register in advance of the event. To register log on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
April 27, 2010
Guides sign up for the Midnight Walk
The 14 girls and three adults from the Dursley District Seniors Section will decorate their shirts for the ladies-only charity walk on June 25.
“The last time we took part in a walk for charity the girls sang all the way around,” said Ann Poulson, Guide leader. “I’ve told them that I don’t think the good people of Cirencester are ready for that.”
The Section meets every Tuesday night at St Bartholemew’s Church Hall, Cam.
“It is the first time we have taken part in the Midnight Walk and the girls are all looking forward to it,” said Ann.
Cotswold Care Hospice is staging two Midnight Walks this year: one in Cirencester on June 25, and the second in Gloucester on September 3.
All money raised will go to the hospice which provides free care and support to people with life-limiting diseases and their families.
“We’re thrilled that the Cam Seniors are taking part and joining the hundreds of women who have signed up to walk,” said Vicki Hayward, senior events manager at Cotswold Care. “It’s a great night and we hope as many women as possible will join us.”
You can register online for the walk on www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
April 7, 2010
Victoria walks the Great Wall of China
Victoria Miles decided that, after completing the Cotswold Midnight Walk, she was ready for a bigger challenge.
So the Stroud 33-year-old is off tomorrow (April 8) to walk the Great Wall of China.
She will raise money for Cotswold Care Hospice, based in Minchinhampton.
“I did the Midnight Walk twice and I know what good work Cotswold Care do,” said Victoria, who works as an assessor with the adult team in Stroud for Gloucestershire County Council.
“My friend and I got out a big map of the world and looked at where we would like to visit. We decided on China.”
Victoria has been walking every weekend to prepare for the 11-day trek. She says the biggest challenge will not be the walking but being away from her four-year-old daughter.
“It will so difficult but I am also looking forward to seeing China,” said Victoria. “The scenery and the cultural side when we stay in farmhouses will be truly amazing.”
To sponsor Victoria, log on to http://www.justgiving.com/victoria-miles
If women fancy a walk closer to home, they can take part in the 10-mile Cotswold Midnight Walk. Logo on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
April 6, 2010
Berkeley Castle support Cotswold Care
Berkeley Castle has launched a photographic competition in conjunction with Cotswold Care Hospice.
Photographers can enter one digital picture of Berkeley and the surrounding area into one of four categories: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
A total of 12 winners will be selected, three from each category, all of which will be used in the 2011 Berkeley Calendar. One overall winner will be selected to feature on the cover of the calendar.
The closing date is July 31. The calendar will be on sale from the end of August.
It is hoped the calendar will raise £5,000 which will be split between Cotswold Care and the Berkeley Castle Charitable Trust.
For further details and competition guidelines, log on to: www.berkeley-castle.com
April 6, 2010
Cotswold Care awarded Dept of Health funding
Cotswold Care Hospice has been awarded a Department of Health grant for building improvements.
The award, up to £239,008 will pay for a conservatory and a covered walkway at the building in Minchinhampton.
Phil Hope, Minister of State for Care Services, said: “We are confident that your project will make a significant difference to the service offered to future patients, and bring benefits to families, carers and staff alike.”
Cotswold Care Hospice Chief Executive, Marcus Green, said: “We were all delighted when we heard this news. This grant will pay for a conservatory and a covered walkway which were two components that we could not afford when the hospice was re-built in 2008.
“This funding will enable us to improve our facilities but our real concern in these continuing times of economic hardship is funding our running costs.
“Only 10% of our annual costs come from the NHS. This year that leaves the hospice with £2.1million to raise from our local community.
“A successful year for our fundraising team is more crucial than ever before to ensure that the ever growing need of those people suffering from a life threatening illness can be met.
“We are looking for 3000 women to take part in our Midnight Walks this year, taking place in Cirencester and Gloucester which we hope will raise £250,000. These Midnight Walks are tremendous events and I urge people to visit our website to sign up to take part.”
April 3, 2010
Florists back Cotswold Midnight Walk
A STROUD florist business is rooting for the Cotswold Midnight Walk.
Three women from Flowercube will act as volunteers for the women-only walk in Cirencester on June 25.
The Cotswold Midnight Walk is Cotswold Care Hospice’s biggest fundraiser of the year. In 2009, 1,800 women raised enough money in one night to run the hospice for more than a month.
Frances Fenwick, owner of Flowercube, said: “One of our staff lost her sister to ovarian cancer just before Christmas so it is fresh in our minds to support Cotswold Care Hospice who give such wonderful care and support.
“We love to support local charities, and Cotswold Care in particular, and being involved in the Midnight Walk is worthwhile. We also show our regular support to the hospice by having a special gift bouquet on our website, www.flowercube.co.uk, but getting involved with the walk gives us another opportunity to support this excellent charity.”
Scores of volunteers are needed to support the women on the night. Walkers and volunteers must register in advance. Women can pay the £12 registration fee online by logging on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
March 27, 2010
Join us for a jazz lunch at Hotel du Vin
A Jazz Lunch is being held at Hotel du Vin in Parabola Road, Cheltenham, on Monday May 3. Proceeds will be support Cotswold Care Hospice.
Gloucestershire band JB Jazz and Blues will perform. Tickets are £25 and include a two-course lunch, a glass of Champagne and an afternoon of music. The event starts at 1pm.
Every year Cotswold Care Hospice, based in Minchinhampton, helps more than 500 people a year with life-limiting illnesses and their families. All of its services are provided free of charge. It costs £4,750 a day to run the hospice.
For details about the lunch or to book tickets, call 01453 886868 or email vanessa.rinaldi@cotswoldcare.org.uk or contact the Hotel du Vin on 01242 588450.
March 17, 2010
England's strongest man backs Cotswold Midnight Walk
England’s strongest man Laurence Shahlaei is throwing his weight - all 145kg - behind the Cotswold Midnight Walk.
The 10-mile women-only walk will be held on June 25 in Cirencester. It raises money for Cotswold Care Hospice.
Laurence, who is the ninth strongest man in the world, is appealing to men to volunteer as marshal and helpers on the night.
“All the women taking part will be wives, daughters, mothers, partners – and we blokes should do all we can to support their efforts. After all they are walking 10 miles to raise money. The least we men can do is volunteer for a couple of hours,” said Laurence, who lives in Stroud.
Last year more than 1,800 women took part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk – raising more than £150,000. It costs £4,750 a day to run the hospice in Minchinhampton. All of its services are provided free of charge.
The charity receives less than 10 per cent of its funding from the Government.
Women must register in advance to take part. If you register before March 31, the early bird fee is £10 – a savings of £2. You can register to take part or to volunteer by logging on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com
Laurence, whose nickname is Big Loz, trains with David Long at the gym at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester. He posed by lifting David and his brother Mark.
“It wasn’t very hard,” said Laurence, who is 27. “They only weigh about 100kg each. In my last exhibition my dead lift weight was 382.5kg.”
He may be England’s strongest man, but Big Loz says his greatest achievement is his daughter, who is now 10 months. “She’s beautiful – I just hope she doesn’t grow up to look like her dad!” he said.
March 11, 2010
Lesley Brain and Mayor open new charity shop
They may have posed on the same chair – but mayor Stephen Hirst and former Big Brother housemate Lesley Brain remained “fully robed” for the opening ot Cotswold Care Hospice’s 10th charity shop.
Lesley Brain, 63, was offered £67,000 to pose naked after she left the Big Brother house. She turned it down but agreed to a “Christine Keeler” style photograph for nothing to help promote the hospice’s 10 charity shops.
The poster, which includes the photo, has the slogan “Lesley Brain donated the clothes off her back to Cotswold Care Hospice – literally. What can you do to help?”
At the opening of the new shop in Tetbury, town Mayor Mr Hirst posed in the chair, complete with his chain of office.
“It was a great moment to be able to sit in “the chair”, he said. “I have been looking forward to it! On a serious note it is pleasing to see such a high class charity shop where people can buy good quality goods while contributing at the same time to such a good cause.”
Every year Cotswold Care Hospice cares for more than 500 people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. All of its services are provided free of charge.
The charity shops provide an important part of the funding needed to run the hospice. All 10 shops welcome donations. To find out the shop nearest you, log on to www.cotswoldcare.org.uk
Caption: Lesley Brain and Mayor Stephen Hirst outside Cotswold Care Hospice’s new charity shop in Tetbury
March 3, 2010
Lesley Brain "bares all" to help Cotswold Care
Lesley Brain, well-heeled WI member and local celebrity, turned down £67,000 to pose naked when she walked out of Big Brother.
Now the 63-year-old is baring all – and not getting a penny for her efforts.
She agreed to the “Calendar Girl” look to support Cotswold Care Hospice, a Gloucestershire charity.
Sitting in the classic Christine Keeler pose, Mrs Brain only has a chair, her pearls, black and white peep toe shoes and her smile to cover her modesty.
The poster with the photo includes the slogan: “Lesley Brain gave Cotswold Care Hospice the clothes off her back – literally. What can you do to help?”.
The retired headhunter, mother and upstanding member of the community caused a stir three years ago when she appeared in Big Brother.
She walked out of the Big Brother house, 10 days later, of her own accord because she was “more bored than she could stand” .
“It is an unwritten BB tradition that female housemates strip off for the media when they leave the house,” said Mrs Brain who lives in Tetbury with her husband, a well known architect. “A price war of sorts culminated in an offer of £67,000 for a nude photo shoot.
“When I expressed surprise that there should be an interest in a nude shot of me an editor said ‘There is a niche market’. Quick as a flash I said ‘I do not wish my niche to be shown to the market.’”
But when Cotswold Care Hospice asked Mrs Brain to be their poster girl and to open their new charity shop in Tetbury, she had a change of heart.
“They asked me so nicely,” she said. “I researched Cotswold Care Hospice and felt that if they thought it could help them then I should do what I could. The naked part seemed a minor sacrifice for such a good cause.”
While the photo is a bit of fun, Marcus Green, chief executive of Cotswold Care Hospice, based in Minchinhampton, said the campaign had a very serious message.
“We are thrilled that Lesley did this for us and are so grateful for her support,” said Mr Green. “While it is a light-hearted campaign, what we do is very important and we need the support of the community.
“We care for more than 500 people a year. We provide all our services free of charge. It costs us £4,750 a day to run the charity and we get less than 10 per cent funding from the Government. Our charity shops are a vital part of our fundraising.
“The success of our 10 shops depends on people donating their clothes and bric-a-brac to us. While this poster is a bit of fun it highlights how important donations to our shops are. A bin bag full of clothes could be worth £50 to us.”
The photograph was taken by Heidi Cartmell, of Secret Me and the poster was designed by Paul Haidon, of Petersen Creative. Both companies are based in Cheltenham.
Since leaving BB, Mrs Brain has published her memoirs about the experience, writes a column for her weekly paper and writes several blogs, including one for the News of the World.
And what does she think her fellow WI ladies will say about her photograph?
“The experience of doing it myself has made me admire the Yorkshire WI (Calendar Girls). I can see now how very brave they were to do it. They risked so much – and probably got – disapproval from their peers which is harder to take than criticism from strangers,” she said.
“I hope the Tetbury WI doesn’t mind. I know what I think and if I can help Cotswold Care Hospice it was worth every moment.”
Date February 23, 2010
Carers enjoy a day of relaxation
Carers enjoyed a day of relaxation, thanks to Cotswold Care Hospice.
More than 30 women enjoyed massage, creative art classes and relaxation lessons at the hospice in Minchinhampton.
Students from Stroud College provided manicures.
“I haven’t felt this relaxed for ages,” said Mrs Hilary Neno, from Minchinhampton. “It’s been such a lovely day.”
Mrs Neno’s husband John attends day therapy at the hospice in Burleigh Lane.
The day was provided free of charge.
“When you care for someone day in and day out, you don’t realize how tense you are,” said Mrs Neno. “If the hospice didn’t hold events like this where else could carers go?”
The next carers’ event will be held on Tuesday June 15. It is open to anyone who cares for someone with a life-limiting illness. The event is free but people are asked to book in advance. To book a place or for more information, please contact the hospice on 01453 886868.
Date: February 22, 2010
Cotswold Care Hospice launches Make a Will week
BBC presenter and local doctor Dr Mark Porter is appealing for people to remember Cotswold Care Hospice in their wills.
The charity is staging a Make a will week to raise awareness of the importance of legacies.
Gifts in Wills generate around a third of the hospice’s annual income. It costs £4,750 a day to run the charity.
All of its services are provided free of charge. The charity receives less than 10 per cent of its needed funding from the Government.
Dr Porter, who presents Case Notes on Radio 4 and is a GP at Wotton-under-Edge, said: “Cotswold Care Hospice provides an invaluable service to more than 500 people with life-limiting illnesses and their families every year, but that care is dependent on donations - many of which come in the form of gifts in wills.
"Family and friends must always be the first concern when writing your will, but a donation to Cotswold Care Hospice will go a long way in helping us to continue to expand and offer more care to more people."
Mr Peter Rowbottom, head of fundraising, said: “Legacies pay a crucial role here. We estimate that one in three of our patients are able to receive free care and support due to funding through legacies. That is an amazing amount.
“Whether the Gift in your will is £100 or £250,000 every penny will make a real difference to the people we support. One in three of us will suffer from a serious illness at some point in our life. Cotswold Care is there to support you – and your family – through that time.”
During Make a Will week, from March 5-March 12, a number of solicitors are donating their time to write a standard will in return for a donation to Cotswold Care Hospice. It is not a pre-requisite that you leave a gift to the hospice in your will.
Further details can be found by phoning the hospice Legacy Officer Kathryn Morton on 10453 886868.
Date: February 2010
Nina launches Cotswold Midnight Walk 2010
Cancer survivor Nina Hickman is challenging women to pull on their walking shoes and take part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk.
The women-only event raises vital funds for Cotswold Care Hospice.
Nina (pictured) has a very personal reason for taking part – the hospice supported and helped her as she went through chemotherapy, a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery.
“I often sit and wonder if Cotswold Care Hospice hadn’t been there to support help and guide me, where would I be today,” said the 49-year-old. “I got so low some days that I wanted to end it all. Cotswold Care kept me going.”
Every year Cotswold Care helps more than 500 people with life-limiting illnesses, their families and their carers. All of its services are provided free of charge.
It costs £4,750 a day to run the hospice - £1.6 million a year. The charity receives less than 10 per cent funding from the NHS. That means 90 per cent of the money is raised by the community.
Last year 1,800 women took part in the Cotswold Midnight Walk. They raised £150,000 – enough money to run the hospice for more than a month.
This year the charity is staging two Midnight Walks: one in Cirencester on Friday June 25 and one in Gloucester on Friday September 3. Both will be 10 miles, with countless marshals and support along the way.
“We’re hoping 3,000 women will join us this year and help us set another record,” said Vicki Hayward, senior events manager at the hospice. “Everyone said that they enjoyed the event so much that we decided we would stage two this year.”
Nina has already signed up to walk in Cirencester. She has taken part in the walk for the past two years, since the event was launched.
“It’s like going to a great big girls’ party,” said Nina, who has three children and is soon to become a grandmother. “The atmosphere is fantastic. It’s so exciting, so much fun.”
Nina was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 – at the same time as she was planning her wedding to Trevor. She had her last chemotherapy treatment the week she married.
“I was frightened to death. I had visions of walking down the aisle with a bald head. I didn’t know what to do, where to turn. You may know people who have cancer but nothing prepares you for when it happens to you.”
When Nina, who lives in Stroud, found the lump she went to her GP. Within days she was in hospital and then came chemotherapy, a mastectomy and eventually reconstructive surgery.
Her doctor suggested Nina come to Cotswold Care for support. “I was at such a low ebb. I was just so scared. Why me? What did I do to deserve this? My doctor said there were people at Cotswold Care who I could talk to, who could help me.”
Nina used the outpatient services at the hospice in Minchinhampton. She would visit for counselling and complementary therapies.
“The first time I came to talk to Kathy the counsellor it was quite daunting. But she was fantastic. She listened to me – really listened. It was so hard to find someone who would listen to me. It was amazing how she brought me through. It was like going down a dark tunnel and realizing there was a light at the end of.”
Nina took part in her first Cotswold Midnight Walk just months after she had had reconstructive surgery. She took part with her daughter and a friend. Husband Trevor volunteered as a marshal for the walk, so that he would be near, if needed.
“I wanted to give something back. I was the last person to finish. I wasn’t fit but I was determined to do it. My husband, daughter and friend tried to walk with me but I pushed them away. I wanted to go across the finish line on my own.
“When I walked into the hall everyone applauded. I felt like a princess. I was just so uplifted and it was such a lovely sensation that I had done and I was so pleased with myself.”
Women can register online for both walks by logging on to www.fancyagirlsnightout.com. Women must register in advance and cannot do so on the night. The £12 registration fee pays for their T-shirt, breakfast and all administration costs. All the money that is raised through sponsorship goes directly to helping the patients. Early birds will save £2 if they register before March 31.
If you would like to know more about Cotswold Care Hospice, please ring 01453 886868.
Date: December 2009
Patient asks the Prince of Wales to fulfil a last wish
Cancer patient Jenny Inman has been inundated with offers to make all her wishes come true.
It all started when the 66-year-old asked the Prince of Wales if she could visit his garden at Highgrove.
The Prince was on a private visit to Cotswold Care Hospice where Jenny is a day therapy patients.
“When I heard he was coming I decided I would ask him,” said Jenny who has a rare form of pancreatic cancer. “I had nothing to lose. I have a wish list of things I would like to do while I am still able and visiting Highgrove is one of them.”
The Prince, who is patron of the hospice, said yes to Jenny’s request.
Also Jenny’s wish list is to see a football match. Now Cheltenham Town Football Club has invited Jenny and her husband to watch a match in the board room and enjoy VIP treatment.
James Brown, Cheltenham Town Media Officer said: “Jenny’s story is a sad but inspiring one. One of her wishes is to experience a live football match and that is a wish that we are happy to grant. It is so important that, in the position we are in, we are able to help people like Jenny.”
The Hotel du Vin in Cheltenham is fulfilling Jenny’s wish for a manicure. She will enjoy a manicure, pedicure and lunch at the hotel in Parabola Road.
“When we heard about Jenny’s wish list we were so touched by her story and her bravery,” said Tom Ross, general manager of Cheltenham Hotel du Vin. “We are thrilled to help her cross something off her list, especially at this time of year. We are proud to support Cotswold Care Hospice. We do so to help people like Jenny.”
The Everyman theatre is giving Jenny, who lives in Tetbury, two tickets to see Sleeping Beauty – thus fulfilling her wish to see a panto.
Now she has just four wishes left on her list which staff at the hospice in Minchinhampton, near Stroud in Gloucestershire, is trying to help her fulfil.
They are: to travel first class on a train, have a holiday in a hotel at the seaside and to raise public awareness of pancreatic cancer.
“I am so lucky. I have had a lovely life but I would like to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer so that more people can survive,” said Jenny.
“The survival rate for this form of cancer is three per cent – the same as it was 40 years ago – while the survival rates for other cancers have improved. If I can make a small difference then it will be worthwhile.”