Sarah Dallyn was so impressed with the care her late brother Tom, aged 33, received at Forest Holme that she is to take part in the Run Bournemouth half-marathon on Sunday 9 October to raise funds for the Poole hospice.

Sarah, 41, who lives in Ringwood, said: “Forest Holme Hospice is a place you never expect to find your loved ones in, particularly your sibling. But after Tom’s courageous battle with cancer, Forest Holme was the place he went to for his end-of-life care.”

The Run Bournemouth event will be Sarah’s fourth half-marathon.

She said: “Tom, and his wife Jodie, were taken in and became members of the Forest Holme family and were looked after, fed, and supported through every day. Our mum, our dad, our sister Becky and I were also cared for and supported, through the most difficult time.

“The staff at Forest Holme do this job every single day; they become part of your lives. They look after your loved one at their most vulnerable time, and your most vulnerable time and care passionately for your loved one, ensuring they are as comfortable as they can possibly be, whilst also maintaining their independence, identity and dignity. For us as a family, at a time in your life, which is the most frightening and traumatic, this special place somehow makes you feel you are not completely drowning.

“Their care and dedication continues long after your loved one has passed. Bereavement support for all family members is offered, as grief impacts your family in so many different ways. Counselling, workshops, phone call support, remembrance events – this support is vital when life continues without your loved one.”