Category: Fundraising

Lincoln, 15th November 2015 – St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice has announced that their Colour Dash will be returning to the Lincolnshire Showground next year.

The independent charity is again teaming up with local events supplier, Running Imp, to host the fun run on Saturday 14th May 2016.

Last year 2,500 people were splattered in environmentally friendly powder paint and together raised an incredible £119,463.07

Becky Otter, Event Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“We had a fantastic turn out a year ago, and we are excited to offer the race again. In fact, last years event was the single most successful event in our charity’s history and we can’t wait to see what 2016 brings.

“The dash is a brilliant way for our supporters to come together and show their support for their local hospice. It is also a bright and vibrant event that brings the whole family together, whether they run in memory of a loved one or just to have fun.”

The Colour Dash is a 5k route lined with paint stations which will see runners splattered in paint at every kilometre. To take part, participants must be aged five years old and over, and anyone aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration will open from 15th December 2015, where adults can take advantage of the early bird price of just £15 and £5 for children. Participants can also buy an early bird family ticket (two adults and two children) for just £35. The early bird price is valid until 1st March 2016.

Becky said: “For 2016 we are opening this event up to an even larger audience with our capacity increasing to 3,500 people. The Colour Dash is all about wearing your biggest smile, raising money for your hospice and getting messy!”

The registration fee includes; your dasher pack, sunglasses, colour dash number sponsorship form, bottle of water, poncho, paint and commemorative medal.

The Colour Dash is being sponsored by Western Power Distribution. If you would like to sponsor a colour station, please do get in touch.

To register go to: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/cd16

#CD16 #getmessy

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice was fortunate to receive a generous donation of £3,490 from The Freemasons’ Grand Charity recently.

A total of six hospices in the Lincolnshire region received donations from The Freemasons’ Grand Charity, totalling £ 10.816.

Veronica Brien – Head of Fundraising and Marketing for St Barnabas said:

“We are elated to receive such a generous donation from The Freemasons’ and we can’t thank them enough. It never ceases to amaze me how supportive this group are and our local community who continue to support the Hospice each year. Through this support, we are able to continue providing the care and support to the people of Lincolnshire and ensure that our patients and their families can make the most of every moment together.”

245 adult and children’s hospices across England and Wales have received a total of £600,000. Since 1984, nearly £12 million has been donated to hospices by The Freemasons’ Grand Charity. Freemasons and their families raise all donations, to assist hospices in their vital role in helping those affected by terminal or life limiting illness.

Speaking about the donation Graham Ives the Provincial Grand Master of Lincolnshire said:

“We believe it is essential to support the exceptional care provided by our local hospices, and financial help is fundamental to ensuring these services can continue. The hospices’ incredible contribution to the community is valued highly here in Lincolnshire and that is why we are so happy to donate this amount in 2015”.

From left to right: Caroline Opsblum, Paula Broughton, Una Taylor and Catherine McIntosh

Catherine McIntosh spent six months planning a charity ball to remember her brother and to raise money for the hospice who cared for him

A total of £11,000 was raised for local charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice at a fundraising ball last month.

Richard’s Ball took place on Saturday 24th October at The Bentley Hotel in Lincoln and attracted 215 guests. The evening featured live music, a casino and a raffle and a tombola with 120 prizes donated from the local business community.

The ball was organised to mark the 50th birthday of Richard Taylor who had died from cancer at the age of 42.

It was Richard’s sister, Catherine McIntosh, 44, and their cousin Paula Broughton, 42, from Lincoln who decided that they should mark the golden milestone birthday.

Catherine said: “Richard was the happiest and most cheerful person you could ever hope to meet. He was the kind of person that would light up a room when he walked into it and his fun loving nature was infectious to all that met him.

“Myself and my cousin Paula thought the ball would be a fitting tribute to Richard and we are absolutely delighted to have raised such an incredible amount for St Barnabas, who cared for Richard in his final days.

“We ensured the ball was personal to Richard and the colour scheme on the night reflected Richard’s love of Manchester United Football Club.”

The evening also included an auction with prizes such as a signed Manchester United football shirt, a signed Chelsea FC football and a water colour painting of Lincoln at night.

The evening was also supported by The Nags Head Public House in Bardney, Goldmsiths, Lindums, Branston Potatoes and Belvoir Lettings.

All the money raised from Richard’s Ball was donated to St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice after the charity had cared for Richard and their family.

Catherine said: “When I first heard that Richard was being transferred from the County Hospital to the Hospice my heart sank. I imagined the hospice as a dark and gloomy place full of sadness and people at the end of their lives. It wasn’t the kind of place that I wanted Richard to be in. How misinformed I was.

“Richard’s room was bright, light and airy and better still it looked out over a beautiful garden. The staff were quick to make us feel comfortable and welcomed Richard’s friends and family, regardless of what time of day it was.

“Before entering the hospice there had been times where Richard had been in real agony but the staff at the hospice ensured that Richard’s pain and symptoms were managed promptly, effectively and with the utmost dignity.

“They treated him with real warmth and compassion, recognising that while he was a stranger to them, he was the world to us.”

Catherine concludes: “The hospice allowed Richard the freedom and dignity to be able to spend precious time with his family and friends and for that we are forever grateful. Our last memories are happy ones knowing Richard passed away peacefully with his family around him.”

Richard’s Ball is to return next year at The Bentley Hotel on 22nd October 2016.

Volunteer Ali Cormack and her children Isla and Archie

Local Lincoln-based business donate 25ft Christmas tree for hospice celebrations

Lincoln, 5th November 2015 – Doddington Hall and Gardens are lending their support to local independent charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice and their Light up a Life appeal.

For the 15th consecutive year the family-run business are donating the 25ft Tree of Life that is illuminated outside Lincoln Cathedral.

Becky Otter, Event Manager from St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“The Tree of Life is an integral part of our Light up a Life celebrations and it is adorned with hundreds of lights, each one dedicated to the life of someone special. The tree is also a focal point in the service which brings together our community at a time which can be difficult for many.

“We are so grateful to Doddington Hall and Gardens for such a generous donation and for their ongoing support. Their commitment to our Light up a Life celebration’s is truly inspiring and it simply wouldn’t be the same without them.

“The Tree of Life plays such an important role to so many and even choosing the tree itself has become a hospice tradition.”

Now in its 15th year the Light up a Life celebrations are an important fundraiser for the hospice who last year raised over £37,000 to help care for people with a life-limiting illness across Lincolnshire.

Claire Birch, who runs the Doddington Hall Estate alongside her husband James, said:

“Christmas trees have been grown at Doddington Hall for many years and are very much a part of our tradition.

“Each year it is our pleasure to donate a home-grown tree to St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice as we are mindful of what it means to so many people, not only the people who take part in the Light Up a Life celebrations but also the people visiting the Cathedral from the county plus far and wide.

“We are always very proud to see our tree surrounded by so much love in such a special place.”

There are nine Light up a Life celebrations across the county and each one will last approximately 1 – 1.5 hours, they are free to attend and open to everyone, regardless of faith. There is no need to book in advance.

LINCOLN, Our Lady of Lincoln Church,

24th November, 6pm

(followed by the Torchlight Procession from Clayton’s Sports Ground, Lee Road, Lincoln LN2 4BH, 7.30pm)

SKEGNESS, St Matthew’s Church,

3rd December, 6.30pm

BOSTON, Zion Methodist Church, Brothertoft Road,

4th December, 6pm

SUTTON ON SEA, Meridale Youth and Community Centre,

5th December, 3pm

SPALDING, St John the Baptist Church,

6th December, 4pm

LOUTH, Methodist Church,

7th December, 6pm

SLEAFORD, Methodist Church,

7th December, 6.45pm

GRANTHAM, St Wulfram’s Church,

8th December, 6pm

GAINSBOROUGH, United Reform Church,

8th December, 7pm

For more information go online to: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/LUALLincoln

Fundraiser Caroline Swindin gets into the spirit of Christmas

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will be hosting a Christmas Shopping Extravaganza on Sunday 15th November, 11am-3pm, at Morton Village Hall in Gainsborough.

There will be a number of local craft and gift stalls, delicious refreshments and games.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“Our Christmas Shopping Extravaganza presents an ideal opportunity to pick up that Christmas gift which is a little different whilst relaxing with our delicious refreshments! St Barnabas cards and giftware will also be available, along with our festive tombola, games and much more.”

“With free entry this promises to be a great day out for all the family whilst at the same time helping to raise funds to support the delivery of Hospice community services to people across the growing community of West Lindsey.”

If you would like to host a stall at the fair or for further information go to www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/xmasshop or call Caroline on 07435 970309

Messages of love were tied around the Tree of Life outside Lincoln Cathedral

Celebrations will be held across Lincolnshire in November and December to remember loved ones who are missed

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is inviting the local community to celebrate the life of someone special at one of their nine Light up a Life celebrations.

The unique celebrations will see the community join together as they remember the life of someone special. Each event will feature touching readings, music and a time for quiet reflection; candles will also be lit in remembrance.

Becky Otter, Event Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said:

“Our Light up a Life celebrations are such a poignant time in our hospice calendar. These gatherings, which unite people in our community who have experienced the loss of someone special, bring great comfort and support to all who attend.

“Last year more than 11,000 lights shone brightly on our Trees of Life, each light representing the life of someone who is no longer with us.

“It is truly a beautiful sight and the wonderful thing about these celebrations is that they are inclusive to everyone within our community, regardless of whether they have a connection to our hospice.”

Now in its 15th year the Light up a Life celebrations are an important fundraiser for the hospice who last year raised over £37,000 to help care for people with a life-limiting illness across Lincolnshire.

For those attending the Lincoln event at Our Lady of Lincoln Church, there is an optional, torch-lit procession afterwards from Clayton’s Sports Ground past the Hospice and on to Lincoln Cathedral, where the Tree of Life will be illuminated for the whole community to see.

Becky concludes by saying: “The torchlight procession in Lincoln is utterly breathtaking and a truly moving event to witness. There is hundreds of flames flickering as far as they eye can see which evokes such a strong sense of unity.

“It is extremely humbling to be part of such special events and stand shoulder to shoulder with members of our community. They are able to support one another and demonstrate real empathy; it really is one not to miss.”

Each Light up a Life celebration will last approximately 1 – 1.5 hours, are free to attend and open to everyone, regardless of faith. There is no need to book in advance.

LINCOLN, Our Lady of Lincoln Church,

24th November, 6pm

(followed by the Torchlight Procession from Clayton’s Sports Ground, Lee Road, Lincoln LN2 4BH, 7.30pm)

SKEGNESS, St Matthew’s Church,

3rd December, 6.30pm

BOSTON, Zion Methodist Church, Brothertoft Road,

4th December, 6pm

SUTTON ON SEA, Meridale Youth and Community Centre,

5th December, 3pm

SPALDING, St John the Baptist Church,

6th December, 4pm

LOUTH, Methodist Church,

7th December, 6pm

SLEAFORD, Methodist Church,

7th December, 6.45pm

GRANTHAM, St Wulfram’s Church,

8th December, 6pm

GAINSBOROUGH, United Reform Church,

8th December, 7pm

For more information go online to: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/LUALLincoln

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will be hosting a Big Band Night on Saturday 7th November, from 7pm, at William Farr School in Welton.

Guests will be treated to music from the 1930’s and 1950’s which will be performed by 23-piece band ‘Room 21’.

Caroline Swindin, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas, said:

“Our guests are in for a real toe tapping, finger snapping extravagant night of music, entertainment and dancing. The band will entertain with a wide selection of music and they will also provide some fun games to add to the evening’s enjoyment

“This promises to be a great night out whilst at the same time helping to raise funds to support the delivery of Hospice community services to people across the growing community of West Lindsey.”

Vintage dress is optional and tickets are priced at £10 per person in advance.

To find out more and to book tickets go to www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/bigband or call Caroline on 07435 970309

Christmas Craft Fair returns to the historic Bailgate to raise funds for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will once again be hosting its annual Christmas Craft Fair at the Bailgate Methodist Church on Saturday 14th November.

Now in its 12th year the Christmas Craft Fair will host a variety of craft stalls from across the county. The event will be open to the public from 10am – 3pm, with free parking and 50p entry.

There will be over 10 local craft stalls selling unique handmade gifts and a number of stalls from St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice. This year will see beautifully crafted glassware from Gemini Craft & Design, novelty doorstops from Daisy Ducks and Bird Boxes made from unusual items crafted by Johnny Fisher.

Ben Petts Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice said:

“This event is sure to get you feeling festive, it is a great opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts that have been lovingly handmade by the crafters we have on display.”

St Barnabas Hospice will host a cake stall with homemade Mince Pies, a Christmas raffle, a stall of Christmas decorations and gifts including the new Lincoln Barons Calendar for 2016.

Ben concludes by saying: “Start off your Festive season with this truly charming event, there will be refreshments served, your favorite Christmas songs playing and a variety of stalls to browse.”

The Bailgate Christmas Craft Fair takes place at the Bailgate Methodist Church on Saturday 14th November from 10am – 3pm. Free Parking and 50p Entry.

For more information about the Christmas Craft Fair please get in touch with Ben Petts on 01522 540300 or email ben.petts@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Novice dancers in Lincoln and Grantham are being encouraged to put their best foot forward in a Strictly Come Dancing inspired competition.

Local independent charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is hosting three Strictly Ballroom fundraisers; two in Lincoln and a third in Grantham.

“Strictly Ballroom has become a staple event in both Lincoln and Grantham and they are fast becoming our most popular hospice fundraisers. Our first-ever dance competition was held six years ago and since then we have raised over £56,000,” said Events Manager Becky Otter.

“Strictly Ballroom is a vibrant and fun event that enables our contestants to learn new skills and make new friends. It brings together our community who surprise us each year with their support and generosity.”

This year competitors in Grantham will learn the Jive and the Foxtrot whilst Lincoln will teach the Rumba and the Quickstep. Strictly Kidz will also return to Lincoln for the second year with children, aged 8 – 16, learning the Tango and Balmoral Blues.

Becky said: “Our professional dance teachers will be by their side every step of the way as our contestants learn the routines over a period of 10 weeks. They then compete in front of a live audience and a judging panel as they battle it out to be crowned the strictly champions.

“Our finales are always a sell-out and we are very grateful to our local community for their support and generosity.”

Dance lessons for the Grantham show will begin on Wednesday 13th January at Long Bennington Village Hall, from 8pm – 9pm, with the finale held on Saturday 23rd April at The Guildhall.

Training for Lincoln Strictly Ballroom and Strictly Kidz commences on the Sunday 17th January at St Johns Baptist Church Hall, Sudbrooke Drive, Lincoln. The children’s lessons are from 4pm – 5pm, followed by the adult lessons 5.30pm – 6.30pm. The grand finale is held on Sunday 3rd April at the Lincoln Performing Arts Centre (LPAC).

Registration in Lincoln and Grantham is £5.00 per competitor. Adults are asked to raise a minimum of £100 each and children £50 each.

To register:

Lincoln adults: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/lincolnstrictly2016

Grantham adults: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/granthamstrictly

Lincoln Strictly Kidz: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/strictlykidz2016

For more information contact Becky Otter on becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk or call her for a chat on 01522 559516.

Lincoln, 2nd October 2015 – On Sunday, 11th October from 10:30am – 4:00pm Skellingthorpe Community Centre and Youth Hall will be bustling with local crafters. Discover unique Christmas gifts handmade by craft stalls from across the county.

Skellingthorpe Craft Fair is now in its 8th year and will once more be filled with gifts, trinkets and beautiful handcrafted items. Rosemary Pike will be attending with her beautifully handmade Stained Glass items; Mary Perridge will be exhibiting her original paintings and Mike Ellis with his handcrafted wooden gifts. Whether you want to browse or buy there is sure to be something that will catch your eye.

The event will take place at the end of Hospice Care Week to coincide with this year’s theme, connecting care. Hospice Care Week will run from the 5th – 11th October. St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice has worked with the Skellingthorpe Fundraising Group for nearly 20 years, in this time the group has raised a total of £88,000.

Ben Petts, Community Events Fundraiser for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice said:

“The Hospice connects with a diverse range of community groups, we connect care through a range of services and the Skellingthorpe Fundraising group is dedicated by organising their own events each year to raise funds for the hospice.”

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will host a variety of stalls with a new range of Christmas cards, decorations and gifts. Guests will have the opportunity to enter a prize draw by getting their program stamped at both the Community Centre & Youth Hall. This will give guests the opportunity to win a meal for 2 at the Stone Arms in Skellingthorpe. Admission is £1.00 and all funds raised will go directly towards patient and family care across Lincolnshire.

For more information contact Ben Petts on 01522 540300 or email: ben.petts@stbarnabashospice.co.uk.