Trustees and staff of Macmillan Caring Locally, the charity that supports the Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital, have said a big thank you to their ‘enthusiastic and dedicated’ volunteers at a special recognition event.
Held at Hoburne Holiday Parks Christchurch, the event in December included an awards’ ceremony for volunteers and presentation to the charity of a £2,550 donation by Hoburne.
Long service awards, sponsored by Verdun and Christine Bailey, directors of Ambassador Pools in Ringwood, were presented to Betty Cook from Ashley Heath and Patricia Cooling from Christchurch. Both ladies were thanked and congratulated on their outstanding service of 24 years and 22 years respectively.
Verdun Bailey expressed his gratitude for the volunteers’ ‘kindness and compassion towards both patients and visitors at what can only be described as a terribly difficult time for them’. Verdun explained that he was proud to sponsor the awards particularly because of his wife Christine’s own successful battle against breast cancer.
Macmillan Unit Matron Sister Heather Rogers, Chairman of the Trustees Keith Lomas and Trust Secretary Neal Williams all spoke of the vital role volunteers have at the Macmillan Unit.
Neal Williams said: “Our volunteers make a real difference. Patients, families and visitors tell us how wonderful it is to see volunteers who are always smiling, and nothing is ever too much trouble. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their enthusiasm and dedication.”
Anyone wishing to volunteer at the Christchurch Macmillan Unit should contact Anita Rigler, Macmillan Unit Volunteer Project Administrator on 01202 705353.