SCORES of Vice Patrons for St Michael’s hospice were celebrated for the work they do in the local community at a grand event.

On Thursday, August 17 around 60 Vice Patrons gathered at St Michaels Hospice in Aldermaston Road, at an event honouring those who give their money and time to the fantastic cause.

The ‘Friends of St Michael’s Hospice’ was set up 25 years ago by 22 people, including President Val Buckley to support the good work that the Hospice does for the local community.

The Vice Patrons are tasked with raising around £3 million per year, the amount it takes to run the Hospice, they do this in various ways which include bake sales and junior tennis competitions.

Andrew Finney, the Chair of the Board said: “Today is all about celebrating the hard work of the Patrons of St Michael’s.

“Their work is very important because they make the most challenging times in people’s lives seem easier.

“Hospice’s used to be viewed as very morbid places where people came to die, but at St Michael’s the money the Patrons raise make it seem like a nicer place to come and people are more comfortable.”

The event took place just months before the 25th anniversary of the opening of St Michaels, Mr Finney also announced the introduction of the ’25 for 25’ initiative that will come into place in October.

Mr Finney added: “This year is important as it marks 25 years of service.

“As of October, we are launching the 25 for 25 initiative, which will ask people to donate £25 for the 25 years of service we have provided to help us reach the £3 million we need each year.”

A most notable fundraising attempt was a young person’s tennis match, which whilst raising money also introduced the younger generation to helping the community at the grass roots.

A Vice Patron, Nicola Lawrence has been fundraising for the charity since her husband, who spent 16 days at the Hospice died four years ago.

Nicola Lawrence said: “I’m trying to raise enough money to pay back the money it cost for my husband to stay in the hospice, so far I have run the London Marathon in 2015 and abseiled down the Spinnaker Tower.”

The event was sponsored by Projected Image, Tesco Chineham and the Town Centre Tesco.