Category: Fundraising
Runners raise nearly £45,000 for St Barnabas across Lincoln 10k and London Marathon
St Barnabas is extremely grateful to all the runners who ran the Lincoln 10k and London Marathon in April in support of the hospice. Together they have raised an incredible £44,987 with donations still coming in.
Every St Barnabas runner has their own story and motivation for taking on these challenges, whether in memory of a loved one or to support local hospice care.
One of the biggest and best-loved running events in Lincolnshire, the City of Lincoln 10k passes through the city’s historic Roman Walls, Cathedral and Castle, with thousands participating every year.
Together, over 40 St Barnabas runners took on this challenge on Sunday 12th April, raising an amazing £25,342 for local hospice care – their highest total from this challenge to date.
Heather says: “After losing my Mum to Cancer in 2024, I realised how important and vital good end-of-life care is to patients and their families. So that’s why I put myself out of my comfort zone to run the Lincoln 10k. I’m very lucky to be able to work for the hospice as well, so it’s a double bubble for me!”
Nick and Sarah ran the Lincoln 10k in memory of Nick’s grandad, Dudley.
Nick says: “Dudley was in the St Barnabas Inpatient Unit for a period of time last year, and they made him very comfortable at the end of his life. We just want to ensure that other people feel as comfortable. We’ve raised over £1,000 and we hope to raise a little bit more.”
Rachel says: “I ran for my Grandad. Also, for our spasticity service in the rehab medicine department in Lincoln Hospital, the Louth wellbeing centre has been amazing by providing rooms for us to put on additional clinics for our patients.”
Wendy says: “St Barnabas is a fantastic facility and service that Lincolnshire has, and everyone appreciates everything that St Barnabas does.”
A marathon like no other, the London Marathon took place on Sunday 26th April, with eight St Barnabas runners going the extra mile in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From Greenwich to The Mall – the sights, sounds, and colour of London on Marathon Day make the 26.2-mile route one of the world’s best. Thanks to their superhuman efforts, they’ve raised £19,645 and counting.
Josh ran the London Marathon in memory of his Nanny and Grandad. You can read his full story here: Josh is taking on the London Marathon in memory of his Nanny and Grandad
Looking back, Josh says: “What a feeling! There were times during the run that I wasn’t sure I would see the finish line (due to two IT band injuries), but I made sure Nanny Barb and Grandad John were my lock screen throughout. Remembering why I was doing this and what the incredible donations were going towards, were what got me through!
“Also, I had amazing support on the day from friends, family, and complete strangers! An unforgettable experience for an amazing cause!”
Steffi ran in memory of her dad, wearing his London Marathon medals from 2001 and 2002. You can read her full story here: Steffi is taking on the London Marathon in memory of her dad, Paul
Reflecting on the experience, Steffi says: “I’m so grateful to the team at St Barnabas for giving me the opportunity to run the London Marathon in memory of my dad. I felt extremely supported by the charity team throughout my training, nothing was ever too much – which was lucky for me, because I always have lots of questions! I am so proud to have raised over £3,150 for St Barnabas.
“The course was tough, made harder by the hot weather, but the landmarks and people cheering runners on provided a great distraction from the physical pain. I felt huge relief to cross the finish line, which was quickly followed by happy tears at the realisation of what I had just achieved, and the thought of what a difference the funds I raised will make to others.”
St Barnabas’ Community Fundraising Administrator Louise, and St Barnabas supporter Sarah, also ran the London Marathon in memory of loved ones.
Louise says: “I ran the Lincoln 10k in April 2025 for St Barnabas and loved every second! That will forever be a special core memory for me, and it was the start of believing in myself, and realising I can do whatever I set my mind to.
“St Barnabas holds a special place in my heart and I’m so grateful to also work for them. My lovely mum passed away from Cancer when I was just 6 years old. She was only 36 and left 4 children behind. As I’m approaching my mum’s age and also have 4 kids of my own (and a stepson), it hits home more than ever. Although I can’t remember much, I’m aware of how amazing St Barnabas were and how they made a heartbreaking time that little easier for my dad and our family.”
Sarah says: “I took part in the London Marathon to support St Barnabas to help them raise money to be able to provide care and support to people in Lincolnshire who need it most.
“Last year my brother, Andy, was in their care for his final weeks of life. The care he received was second to none and I will be eternally grateful for all they did to make him as comfortable as possible during his time there.”
All donations raised through challenges like the Lincoln 10k, and London Marathon contribute to the funding of St Barnabas’ vital services, helping to provide essential hospice care to over 12,000 people annually.
Let 2026 be the year you run the Lincoln Half Marathon for St Barnabas. Sign up today: Lincoln Half Marathon 2026 – St Barnabas Hospice
Feeling inspired to take on the Lincoln 10k next year for St Barnabas? Get started here: City of Lincoln 10k 2027 – St Barnabas Hospice
Phil to walk 250 miles in memory of his mum June and in support of St Barnabas Hospice
Phil is planning to walk 250 miles this June in memory of his mother, and in support of St Barnabas, who provided care for her at home in her final days.
To remember her life and raise vital funds for the hospice, Phil is embarking on a 250-mile sponsored walk from June’s birthplace on the banks of the River Tees in Middlesbrough, winding his way through her favourite places in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, to Rutland Water, where her ashes will rest alongside her husband Peter’s.
June met her husband, Peter, while on holiday in Jersey in the early 1950s. The couple began married life in London, where they had two sons, Mark and Phil, before moving to their ‘forever’ home in Northorpe, near Bourne in south Lincolnshire.
In later years, Phil and his wife Sam cared for June as her Alzheimer’s progressed. In the final weeks of her life, they reached out for additional care and support from St Barnabas.
In February 2025, June died, aged 88, at home where she had lived happily for 55 years and where she had always wanted to be at the end of her life, following a short illness complicated by Alzheimer’s.
Phil says: “She was able to die in the place she loved, because of the support of the Hospice at Home nurses. The support we received from Emily was a life changer for me and my family.
“The St Barnabas team are wonderful, kind and caring. They held mum’s hand (and ours on occasion), comforted her, and expertly guided all of us through the last weeks of her life – or as we came to call them, her ‘last few steps’. We simply could not have done it without them. They were amazing.”
The route will pass Grove Hill, where June lived until her marriage; Rutland Water, a favourite spot for June and Peter in their later years; and St Barnabas’ Inpatient Unit in Lincoln.
Phil added: “I’ll be carrying Mum’s ashes with me, so this will really be June’s last journey through the lands she loved, laughed and lived in for 88 years.
“June’s last few steps is going to be a truly wonderful and meaningful experience supporting St Barnabas, who in turn support people like June at the end of their journeys, helping them stay in the place they feel safest and happiest.
“I’ll be visiting many of the spots that June loved. It’ll take me two weeks, but I’ll be supported all the way by my wife Sam, family, friends, and Frankie the dog.”
Phil’s challenge will begin in Middlesbrough on the 6th of June and is planned to finish at Rutland Water on the 21st of June – June’s birthday. Anyone wishing to support him and donate to St Barnabas can do so on his JustGiving page.
Josh is taking on the London Marathon in memory of his Nanny and Grandad
After watching the London Marathon last year, Josh felt inspired to take on the challenge himself and do it for a cause that means a lot to him. This year, he’ll be running the London Marathon in memory of his nanny Barb and grandad John, and in support of St Barnabas.
Josh describes his nanny as someone who was full of wisdom and life lessons, who lit up every room she walked into and was always a laugh to be around.
He says: “Nanny Barb was amazing in every possible way. Family meant everything to her, and she was a pillar of our family. Her loss has left a huge gap that can never really be filled.”
He describes Grandad John as a “typical grandad”, full of war-time facts, classic grandad jokes, and stories that made both the grandchildren and great-grandchildren laugh.
Josh continues: “Together, they were an incredible couple and the perfect grandparents. Running in their names means everything to me.”
Barb was diagnosed with blood cancer, and received hospice care at home, before moving into a local hospice for two weeks to receive end-of-life support.
Josh adds: “Nothing really prepares you for hearing something like that, and it brought a mix of shock, fear, and heartbreak. As a family, we tried to stay strong for one another while coming to terms with what lay ahead, making the most of every moment we had together.
“Seeing how comfortable and cared for she was made such a difficult time far more bearable for all of us.”
The experience had such an impact on his Grandad John, that when his pulmonary fibrosis worsened and he developed heart failure, he wanted to have hospice care too.
“The care and compassion shown to him and our family during that time meant more to us than words can express.
“If I had to describe hospice care in one word, it would be impossible, because one word simply isn’t enough. The support we received went far beyond medical care. The atmosphere was peaceful, and somehow even cheerful during one of the hardest times of our lives. It created a sense of comfort and reassurance and made an unbearable situation just that little bit easier to cope with.”
It is because of this personal experience, that Josh is eager to give back and support hospice care in any way he can.
“Sadly, it was during the application process for a St Barnabas London Marathon charity place, that Grandad John became ill and later passed away. When I was chosen to run, I knew without a doubt that it was something that I had to do.
“Supporting St Barnabas is my way of helping ensure that other families can receive the same incredible care, support, and compassion when they need it most.”
While the training has been challenging, Josh has maintained four runs per week and has enjoyed his training routine.
Josh adds: “This will be a huge mental challenge, but running in Nanny Barb’s and Grandad John’s names, and thinking about the incredible hospice work, will give me everything I need to get through it.
“Each run pushes me further, both physically and mentally, and reminds me exactly why I’m doing this.
“At the start line, I know I’ll be thinking about Nanny Barb and Grandad John, and how proud I hope they would be. At the finish line, it will be a mixture of relief, emotion, and gratitude – knowing I’ve done this for them, and for hospice care. I’ll also be thinking about the biggest glass of wine at the finish line!”
If you’d like to sponsor Josh and support St Barnabas with a donation, your generosity will help the hospice continue to be there for families when they need it most: Joshua Takouni is fundraising for St Barnabas Hospice Trust (Lincolnshire)
Would you like to take on a challenge in memory of a loved one? Josh says: “Do it. If not for yourself, then to raise money and awareness for those who truly deserve it! It’s not just about the race day; it’s everything that leads up to it.
“I would highly recommend it. Although, maybe ask me again after 25 miles!”
To take part in an upcoming challenge, or choose your own for St Barnabas, visit the website and sign up today.
Remembering a loved one this Mother’s Day
At St Barnabas, we understand that Mother’s Day can be difficult, with a mix of emotions and memories.
Today we’re thinking of all mums, those with us and those we remember with love 💛
Please remember that we are here if you need us. Our free bereavement support is open to anyone in Lincolnshire – not just those families supported by hospice care. Our Bereavement Helpline is available Monday to Friday, 11am – 3pm. You can call 0300 303 1897 to talk to a trained volunteer.
Ways to remember a loved one
Ways to remember a loved oneRemembering a loved one is very personal, which is why we offer a number of ways to celebrate a life.
There are a variety of ways you can remember a loved one with St Barnabas, including creating an online tribute page, fundraising in memory, or leaving a gift in your Will.
MuchLoved Tribute Page
This is your own special memorial website in tribute to your loved one, where you can share memories, thoughts, and stories with family and friends, as well as light candles, add music, photos and videos.
Donate
Donations made in a loved one’s name will go on to care for someone else. Every pound given supports our mission – that no-one should face dying or grieving alone.
Gifts in Wills
Remember someone special by leaving a gift in your Will, helping to bring care, comfort and dignity to others for years to come.. Each gift, no matter the size, is one of the most powerful ways to protect local hospice care.
Fundraise for St Barnabas
Honour the memory of someone special by fundraising for St Barnabas. Your support helps us deliver expert care and comfort when it matters most. Get involved with one of our fundraising initiatives or take on a challenge in memory of a loved one.
Regular Giving
You may wish to remember someone special with a monthly gift. By giving each month, even a small amount can add up to make a big difference. Become part of a community of supporters making care, comfort, and dignity possible for families across the county.
However you spend the day, we hope it offers a gentle moment to reflect and remember.
Adam is preparing to take on his 22nd Great North Run in memory of his Mum
Adam, from Lincoln, finished his first Great North Run (GNR) in 2004 and has completed it every year since, only missing out one year due to injury, in support of St Barnabas.
Adam says: “It all started in memory of my Mum, who received such wonderful care at the St Barnabas inpatient unit in Lincoln, but now it’s so much more than that. It’s still very much doing it in her memory, but it’s also an amazing way for me to keep fit and feel like I’m giving something back.
“It’s now just the thing I do each year, and I absolutely love it!”
The Great North Run is the most iconic half marathon in the world. Since 1981, people of all ages and abilities take on this popular race, from Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields.
This unforgettable experience encompasses 60,000 participants, cheering crowds, and a lively 12.1-mile course filled with music and entertainment.
Looking ahead to September, Adam says: “It’s a familiar routine now. What I’ve learned over the years is that the fitter I am and the better I’ve trained, the more I enjoy the event on the day.”
Whether you’re aiming to achieve a fitness goal, have fun, or raise funds for a good cause, this iconic event welcomes runners of all abilities.
Missed out on the ballot? You can still join Adam and others by joining one of our limited charity places. Sign up now to be part of this incredible event: Great North Run 2026 – St Barnabas Hospice
Offering his advice to those taking on a running challenge, Adam says: “I find that having a clear reason in mind really helps – that’s what will keep you on track when it gets tough, either during the training or the event itself. It’s a hugely rewarding thing to do.”
Once you have signed up, you will be provided with an Enthuse Fundraising page, and the St Barnabas team will support you every step of the way.
Adam adds: “I’ve received huge amounts of moral support and encouragement from St Barnabas over the years… and a fair few running vests too!”
All donations raised through challenges contribute to the funding of St Barnabas’ vital services, helping to provide essential hospice care to over 12,000 people annually.
Each year we need to raise £7 million to keep providing these vital services to patients and families in Lincolnshire.
Support Adam’s fundraiser: Adam Davey is fundraising for St Barnabas Hospice Trust (Lincolnshire)
Take a look at all of our Great North Run runners: St Barnabas Hospice Trust (Lincolnshire): Great North Run 2026
To take part in an upcoming challenge or choose your own for St Barnabas, visit the website and sign up today: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/fundraising/challenges/
Generous supporters raise over £150,000 for St Barnabas Hospice through festive fundraisers
Thanks to initiatives such as The Warehouse Lock-In event, the Light Up A Life appeal, the Torchlight Procession, Rudy’s Run, and recent Tree-Cycle collections, supporters have helped raise £150,509 for St Barnabas.
As financial pressures continue to grow for the hospice, this generosity helps meet the urgent needs across Lincolnshire and protects St Barnabas’ future.
A record-breaking night at The Warehouse’s fourth Lock-In event saw over £15,000 of income generated on Thursday 6th November, with more than 2,000 items sold and saved from landfill.
The sold-out event saw over 250 sustainable shoppers start their Christmas shopping, enjoying a complimentary cocktail with St Barnabas gin or rum, and loaded brownie from local dessert specialists, Sinple Treats.
Caroline Peach, Head of Retail at St Barnabas, says: “It was such a wonderful event! Over the weekend, figures skyrocketed up to £30,000 of income generated, with an additional 3,000 items sold. These vital funds will support St Barnabas in providing compassionate, high-quality care to people across Lincolnshire.
“A huge thank you to everyone who came along. Through shopping in our charity shops, you can save money, prevent landfill waste, and support local hospice care all at once. We have 23 county-wide charity shops, and you can find your local St Barnabas shop on the website: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/shop/”
Each Christmas, as part of St Barnabas’ Light Up A Life appeal, supporters are invited to dedicate lights on the Tree of Life outside Lincoln Cathedral in memory of loved ones.
The Tree of Life is illuminated during the annual Torchlight Procession, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. This poignant event has grown from 100 people and a lone piper, to over 1,000 led by the RAF Waddington Pipe Band.
On Tuesday 18th November, over 1,000 people walked the procession in memory of loved ones. Thanks to ticket sales, donations on the night, online dedications and sponsorship, the Torchlight Procession and Light Up A Life appeal collectively raised £87,244.
Amelia Chambers, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at St Barnabas, says: “It was an incredibly moving evening, made even more special by marking 25 years of this poignant event. At a time when we’re facing financial challenges, it means so much to have had so many join us in remembrance and make a dedication.”
At the start of January, teams of corporate volunteers were travelling across the county, collecting pre-booked Christmas trees as part of the Hospice’s Tree-Cycle fundraising campaign.
Trees have been recycled using local wood chipping companies, with chippings used for biomass boilers, bedding for farmyard animals, for use in agricultural fertilisers, or they can be turned into mulch for gardens.
For a suggested donation of £22 for each tree, St Barnabas collected and recycled 1,225 trees, raising £32,621 for the Hospice.
Eleanor Fellows, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, says: “We wouldn’t be able to run this fundraising initiative without the vital support from local businesses, groups, and individuals who provide us with their services.
“Thank you to everyone who recycled their Christmas tree with us or volunteered their time in support of this campaign.”
Community fundraisers were also delighted to see 6 schools and 1 nursery take part in Rudy’s Run, despite the fundraising appeal on hold last year to revisit resources and branding.
This fun, festive fundraiser encourages children of primary school age to run, walk, dance or prance to raise money for St Barnabas Hospice.
Over 900 children took part and over £3,644 was raised for St Barnabas, thanks to the fundraising efforts of these young supporters, encouraging adults and fantastic teachers.
Deborah Yarwood, Community Fundraiser at St Barnabas, says: “It means a lot that these schools continued to take part in Rudy’s Run and raise money for St Barnabas. We’re looking forward to launching a new look for Rudy’s Run this year and getting lots more places on board!”
The money raised through these initiatives helps the Hospice provide free, dignified palliative and end-of-life care to over 12,000 adults each year, as well as wellbeing services such as bereavement support, counselling, and welfare and benefits advice.
Fundraising is a powerful tool to support St Barnabas and helps the hospice provide compassionate care for local people and their families. Whether you’re an individual, a group of friends, a school or a workplace, every pound raised makes a lasting difference.
To find out more about upcoming campaigns and ways to get involved, visit the St Barnabas Hospice website: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/
Inflatable 5k Bounces Back to Lincoln with St Barnabas as Headline Charity Partner
The world’s biggest and craziest Inflatable 5k obstacle course is returning to Lincoln on Saturday 6th June, with St Barnabas Hospice named as Headline Charity Partner for the second year.
This epic event is packed with giant slides, bouncy obstacles, and plenty of fun. Navigate over 30 larger-than-life inflatables on this 5k course, and stay energised as you bounce, slide, and swing through motivating music zones.
By taking on the Inflatable 5k for St Barnabas Hospice, you can enjoy a course packed with laughter-filled obstacles, while making a real difference to the lives of patients and families across Lincolnshire.
St Barnabas Hospice is a local independent charity, each year supporting more than 12,000 people across Lincolnshire affected by a life-limiting or terminal illness. All services provided are free of charge to patients and their families.
This year, as financial pressures increase, the hospice needs support more than ever. Participants supporting St Barnabas are asked to fundraise a minimum of £80 in sponsorship to raise essential funds for local hospice care.
Eleanor, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, says: “Every donation raised plays a crucial role in supporting St Barnabas during an increasingly challenging financial time, and will help us provide exceptional care for people across Lincolnshire.
“With obstacles, mega slides, and tunnels, the Inflatable 5k makes running more enjoyable than ever. Whether you’re brand new to running or simply looking for a fun challenge with friends or family, this event is perfect for everyone.”
Fundraising and donations bring care, comfort, and dignity to families across Lincolnshire when they need it most, like Sarah’s.
Julian was diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy in 2020, and during the early stages of his diagnosis, the family received visits from St Barnabas in the comfort of their own home.
Sarah says: “Having a St Barnabas nurse come around was a real lifeline for us. Sue was great. She just helped us with all the problems we had. She made the world of difference to Julian and to the family.
“It was obviously a dark time, but St Barnabas supported Julian physically and emotionally to make his last few weeks comfortable. He was looked after so beautifully by everyone – they became our extended family.
“Being able to hand over the full-time burden of care to this marvellous team, made me feel much more like his wife again, rather than his carer. What a wonderful gift to have.”
£85 could fund a two-hour community visit for someone like Julian, providing personalised care and support in the comfort of a patient’s home.
Sign up today in support of St Barnabas, with registrations from £18: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/events/inflatable-5k/
The St Barnabas team will be there to support you from the beginning, with hints and tips to maximise your fundraising, a free St Barnabas t-shirt and extra encouragement on the big day.
St Barnabas Hospice needs to fundraise £7 million each year to continue providing their services to the local community. Money raised through events like the Inflatable 5k helps the Hospice provide free, compassionate, dignified palliative and end-of-life care to over 12,000 adults each year, as well as wellbeing services such as bereavement support, counselling, and welfare and benefits advice.
To find out more about St Barnabas’s services, please visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/
Recycle your Christmas tree sustainably with St Barnabas’ Tree-Cycle
St Barnabas’ Tree-Cycle fundraising initiative offers a simple, eco-friendly way for people across Lincolnshire to recycle their Christmas trees, while supporting local hospice care.
If you’ve made the eco-friendly decision to purchase a real Christmas tree this year, don’t forget to register your tree for a donation with St Barnabas, so it can be recycled or replanted sustainably in the new year.
For a suggested donation of £22, which could cover the cost of a St Barnabas staff nurse for one hour, the team will collect your tree, chip it and recycle it. At a time when the hospice is facing financial difficulties, this festive initiative raises crucial funds to support the provision of end-of-life care and support across Lincolnshire.
A team of wonderful volunteers and corporate supporters will be travelling across the county to collect pre-registered Christmas trees, between Wednesday 7th – Monday 12th January 2026.
Trees will be recycled using chippers across the county and potted trees will be replanted locally. The chippings produced can be used for biomass boilers, bedding for farmyard animals, for use in agricultural fertilisers, or they can be turned into mulch for gardens.
By booking your tree collection and leaving a donation, you’ll be helping St Barnabas provide exceptional care for people across Lincolnshire who are living with a life-limiting or terminal illness, like Angela.
When Angela was diagnosed with liver cancer, she felt “shocked and upset”. Now, she says the spiritual care and support she’s receiving at home from St Barnabas has been “brilliant”. Sonya, a Health and Rehabilitation Support Worker at St Barnabas, supports Angela as part of the Hospice at Home team, and is also able to provide additional support as a Spiritual Champion.
Angela said: “The support means a lot. It’s being able to offload what’s bothering me – sometimes it’s medical, sometimes it’s spiritual. It’s knowing that there’s somebody there that I could contact if I need them, and they’ve just been wonderful, amazing.
“It’s like coming out of the wilderness and into a safe place, in my own home. Sonya is kind and so thoughtful.”
From Lincoln to Louth, Gainsborough to Grantham and Skegness to Spalding, Hospice at Home nurses, like Sonya, are supporting people in the community 365 days a year – including Christmas.
Sonya said: “As a Spiritual Champion, I’m there to listen, to support, and to help and guide her with whatever she needs. If I can make that one person feel a tiny bit better, I’ve done my job.”
A donation of £42.50 could enable St Barnabas to fund a community nurse visit for one hour, bringing personalised care directly to a patient’s home, like Angela’s.
For more information about Hospice at Home services in your area, call 0300 020 0694 or visit: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/services/hospice-at-home/
Eleanor Fellows, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, said: “We want to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers and for the support we’re receiving from local businesses and communities. Donations to our Tree-cycle fundraising initiative will play a crucial role in supporting our hospice during an increasingly challenging financial time.
“We’re happy to collect multiple trees from households, businesses, hotels and more! We accept trees up to 6ft in height, so if you’d like to register a tree that is larger than this, we ask that you trim it down to 6ft or below, so it fits in our collection vehicles.
“To guarantee collection, we also ask that trees are left in a clearly visible location, either at the end of your drive or outside your door. We are unable to enter your property, back garden or shed so please make sure the tree is ready for collection.”
Eleanor Fellows, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, said: “We want to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers and for the support we’re receiving from local businesses and communities. Donations to our Tree-cycle fundraising initiative will play a crucial role in supporting our hospice during an increasingly challenging financial time.Registrations for Tree-cycle are now open and will close on Monday 5th January or when bookings reach capacity. Visit the website to see the postcode areas covered and to book your tree collection: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/tree-cycle
Over a thousand walk in St Barnabas’ 25th Torchlight Procession
On Tuesday 18th November, over 1,000 people walked in memory of loved ones, raising vital funds for St Barnabas Hospice as part of their annual Light Up A Life appeal.
Supporters of all ages marked this meaningful milestone by walking together from Clayton’s Sports Ground to Lincoln Cathedral, carrying flaming torches and lanterns in remembrance of loved ones.
As is tradition, the Torchlight Procession paused at the Hospice’s Inpatient Unit on Nettleham Road for an emotional rendition of Amazing Grace. Patients, staff and volunteers at the Inpatient Unit were able to enjoy this emotive display.
At the front of the Procession was Sheila Flatters, who dedicated a light to honour her beloved husband, Malc, who sadly died in the Hospice in 2023. As the procession came to a close, Sheila, joined by her grandsons Liam and Jacob, carried the flaming torch forward, symbolically lighting the ceremonial torch at Lincoln Cathedral.
The service of celebration, compered by Melvyn Prior, included songs from local choirs and a message of thanks from Chris Wheway, Chief Executive of St Barnabas Hospice.
Chris Wheway said: “It’s been my tenth year of doing this procession, and it never ceases to move me in a very special way. By being here, we’re not only remembering and honouring people, but we are also changing lives for people who are currently dying today, and tomorrow, and in the future.
“It’s an honour to be part of this celebration each year. Just know that you’ve made a difference to many, many people in the coming months and years. So, thank you so much for tonight and for your ongoing support of your hospice because we need it absolutely.”
The 30ft Tree of Life outside the Lincoln Cathedral was illuminated during a touching performance of May The Road Rise to Meet You, sung by Annie Griffith and her Community Choirs, who have supported this event for 10 years.
Supporters were then invited to write Messages of Love and tie them to the railings surrounding the tree, sending a special message to loved ones no longer here.
Eleanor Fellows, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, said: “It was an incredibly moving evening, made even more special by marking 25 years of this poignant event. At a time when we’re facing financial challenges, it means so much to have so many join us in remembrance.
“We want to thank everyone who walked the Procession, and those who have so generously donated to our Light Up A Life appeal. It really does make such a difference. And a special thanks to HomeLet, all our corporate supporters and volunteers who have made the evening possible.”
Thanks to ticket sales and donations on the night, the Torchlight Procession raised over £23,000. In addition, the Light Up A Life campaign has raised more than £36,000 so far this year.
The appeal sees supporters dedicating lights in memory of loved ones each Christmas, now shining brightly on the Tree of Life outside Lincoln Cathedral. Over the past two and a half decades, more than 20,000 people have been honoured.
Ellie Carter, Legacy and In Memory Manager at St Barnabas, said: “You can remember anyone, not just those cared for by the Hospice. There’s still time to dedicate a light in memory of a loved one through the St Barnabas website, where you can also upload a photo and a message in tribute.
“Every donation for a light pays for more people to receive specialist end-of-life care, and more families to receive bereavement support during the most difficult times. Without this support, we simply couldn’t do what we do.”
It has been a challenging year for St Barnabas, and each donation helps meet the urgent needs across Lincolnshire and protects St Barnabas’ future. £22 could fund an hour of hospice nursing care, bringing comfort and expert support to patients and their families. £42 could bring comfort to a patient in their own home, helping them feel safe and cared for.
The Tree of Life sits outside the Cathedral until early January and is completely free to visit for a moment of quiet reflection.
Those who were unable to attend the event are still able to watch the live streams on Facebook, or dedicate a light on the Tree of Life at: Light up a Life with St Barnabas Hospice
With special thanks to all volunteers, runners, and stewards, Annie Griffith and her Community Choirs: Ermine Music, SCONE, Silver Voices (AgeUK), Treble Cliff, Chevron Traffic Management Ltd, City of Lincoln Council, Claverings Removals, Clearance and Storage, Claytons Bowls Club, Community Response Lincolnshire, Davis Trackhire, Doddington Hall & Gardens, EE Call Centre Lincoln, Flying Hire, HomeLet, Kurnia Aerial Photography, Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, Lincolnshire Co-op, Lincolnshire County Council, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, Lincolnshire Police, Lincs Loos, Lindum Rotary Club, Melvyn Prior, Peachy Events, The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones, Royal Air Force Station Waddington Pipes & Drums, Ruddocks, Safety Advisory Group, S.Lyon & SON Haulage Ltd., St John Ambulance, St Mary Magdalene Church, Stuart Wilde Photography Ltd, Taylor Lindsey Ltd, The Lincoln Camera Club, The Lincoln Tea & Coffee Company, The Tower Hotel, TSS Events, ViC Group, VINCI Facilities, Visual Print, Wootton Forestry & Powerline Services Limited.
As part of the festive calendar, on Saturday 29th November, Lincoln Cathedral will host its Advent Carol Service by Candlelight, marking the start of Advent with traditional carols, hymns and readings. Held in partnership with St Barnabas Hospice, this reflective service is free to attend and open to all. Find out more: Advent Carol Service, by Candlelight – St Barnabas Hospice
Sheila Flatters dedicates a light in memory of husband, Malc
“Christmas is never the same without my husband, but it warms my heart to know that we can still celebrate his life thanks to Light Up A Life, where one of the symbolic lights on the Tree of Life will be shining brightly in memory of him.”
Sheila Flatters lost her husband, Malc, in December 2023, not long after celebrating their Ruby Wedding Anniversary with family. This year, which would have marked their 42nd wedding anniversary, Sheila is dedicating a light and attending the poignant Torchlight Procession in his memory.
Malc, described as a man who loved sport and embraced life, especially loved playing snooker with his grandsons and walking in the Yorkshire Dales with his wife. Sheila says: “We loved each other very much.”
Malc was first diagnosed with Oesophageal cancer in 2018.
Sheila recalls: “We managed about four years to live life, and he was so brave and positive after such a major operation. Unfortunately, in March 2023 he was showing signs again. And then sadly, in May 2023, he was diagnosed with secondary cancer.”
“We knew that life would be changing eventually without Malc. I think you find, or are given, another level to cope with what lies ahead.”
Shelia cared for Malc at home, but as soon as he was diagnosed, St Barnabas was there to help and support.
Sheila explains: “They regularly visited and called. I could always ring them for a chat when I needed support. Sometimes you can’t show how you feel to the person who is so ill, and so you need to say something to someone else. And so, St Barnabas was there for me as well. And I don’t know how I would have done it without them.”
“All the team at St Barnabas go above and beyond with their excellent care. Malc was given dignity, and they helped him with his sense of humour – they just kept him going. They respected him as a person. They made him comfortable, and I knew that I could go home, and he would be in safe hands.”
“On the day he passed, St Barnabas just gave us time to be with him, and it was so peaceful and comforting that we could do that. A lady in the kitchen knew that me and Lisa, our daughter, had been up for most of the night with nothing to eat. And she made us a bacon roll. I can’t thank St Barnabas enough for their thoughtfulness.”
This Christmas, St Barnabas Hospice invites you to join Sheila in dedicating a light on their Tree of Life and attending the Torchlight Procession on Tuesday 18th November.
Reflecting on last year’s Torchlight Procession, Sheila says: “You know it’s going to be emotional but being there with so many people remembering their loved ones, is a special kind of emotion. We know that Malc will be with us there also.”
“This Christmas, please join me in dedicating a light to remember your loved ones and help the hospice care for people in the future, like Malc.”
You can remember anyone with a light, not just those care for by the Hospice. As a thank you, St Barnabas will send you a personalised card and a memory tag for the Tree of Life, and a decoration to display at home.
£28.21 could cover the cost of our care for one minute
£42 could pay for a comforting home visit for one hour
£115.48 could allow a nurse to provide dignified care for one day
Every donation for a light brings care, dignity, and comfort to local families. As financial pressures continue to grow, your generosity helps meet the urgent needs across Lincolnshire and protects St Barnabas’ future.
To dedicate a light and book for the Torchlight Procession, please visit: Light up a Life with St Barnabas Hospice