St Mary's celebrates 25 years of support

Hospice staff and support workers reflected on 25 years of considerable achievement at a topping-out ceremony and open day on 25th April. Members of the public were able to see at first hand the major £500,000 “bringing the outside in” project that is under way at St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston.

The conversion of office space into what is effectively a giant conservatory on the front of the old house will give patients a clear and relaxed view of the magnificent grounds and garden area.

And to help celebrate the occasion there was also a tree-planting ceremony – of a liquid amber tree – by the three original founder members of the hospice, Reverend Nick Gosswin, Mrs Margaret Berry and Mrs Clarissa Kavanagh. Mr Gosswin told onlookers that it was back in 1984 that they came up with the raw idea of a hospice for the South Cumbria area.

He said: “We had a vision of a place of peace and tranquility and after a lot of heartache and headaches the hospice was eventually opened (by Princess Diana) in 1990. It has since built a reputation as the centre of excellence where the treatment and care is unsurpassed."

Hospice director Alan Lodge said that, when finished, the sun room and sun terrace would open up the hospice to the garden and sea views. He said: “We hope it is a place that patients, visitors, families and members of the public will come and enjoy.” Dr Helen Clayson said the extension included a refreshments area and hoped it would prove to be a social hub. She said: “The hospice now provides nine beds for inpatients, a day service and a growing hospice at home service.”

Zoe Guest, St Mary’s Hospice fundraising and volunteer manager, said the open day included performances by the Ulverston Victoria High School Swing band and Dalton Our Lady’s School choir. And she gave thanks to the Department of Health and others who have provided grant funding for the project.