Volunteers battled the elements to run an event raising funds for Mary Stevens Hospice on Sunday 29th July at Hagley Hall.
“A Picnic in the Park” was the brainchild of long-term Hospice supporter Sue Williams, who worked closely with events staff at Hagley Hall to organise exclusive access for a one-off event at the stately home.
Originally, Hospice supporters were invited to enjoy a rare opportunity to walk the idyllic grounds of the Hall, taking in the waterfall, scenic gardens and deer who live on the site followed by BBQ or a picnic in the park, however the weather conditions meant event organisers had to think on their feet and adapt the day to ensure it was still enjoyable and safe for their guests.
Mike Williams, Event co-organiser, said: “What a day for A Picnic in the Park! After a three-month heatwave, what are the odds of gale force winds and heavy rain?!
The conditions meant the idea of running a barbecue and a raffle had to be abandoned as it simply wasn’t safe to attempt to put up a gazebo in front of Hagley Hall. Despite everything, Sue’s team of volunteers all arrived at the allotted time, dressed in winter waterproofs and thermals and carried on without complaint.
They showed an admirable stiff upper lip as they strode out into the elements to take up their positions on deer park gates and ancient monuments and both Sue and I are so grateful to them for their attitude and commitment.
Despite seeing a huge level of interest in the weeks prior to the event, we were a little disappointed by the number of people who came but it is completely understandable in the circumstances and we were still able to raise £350 for the Hospice!”
Charlotte Schofield, Head of Fundraising & Lottery, Mary Stevens Hospice Group, said: “Sue and her voluntary team dedicated so many hours and such hard-work and creativity to this event and we are so, so grateful to everyone who was there on Sunday.
Either in an organisational role or as a supporter going to enjoy the day, to know that there were members of our community out there in the wind & rain making the best of truly awful weather to make care possible for our patients is simply overwhelming, and the money they’ve raised will make a huge difference to our patients.
What they’ve raised is enough to pay for two patients to attend our Day Services Unit tomorrow, which goes so far beyond monetary value for the families who will benefit from that care.”
In spite of the conditions, Sue and her team were still able to raise £350 towards patient care at the Hagley Road hospice which cares for families battling the impact of life-limiting illnesses in the local area.
A Picnic in the Park was the second of five events being run by Sue to support the Hospice in 2018, with An Evening with Dr Norman Croucher, a charity fashion show and a day trip to Blenheim Palace all to come before the end of the year.
To find out more about the work done by Mary Stevens Hospice, please visit: www.marystevenshospice.co.uk.
