90,000 thanks to Trinity’s fund-raising superheroes

Staff at Trinity Hospice set themselves a huge £60,000 target at the 30th anniversary ball, held at Blackpool Tower.

But with money still flowing in from the event, the amount raised has now topped £90,000, to the delight of hospice bosses.

More than 600 people packed into Blackpool Tower’s famous ballroom for the special anniversary event.

Guests bought auction lots, raffle tickets, prize balloons and also pledged to help ‘pay for a day’ at Brian House Children’s Hospice.

Head of fund-raising Linzi Young said: “We were speechless when we realised what the final total was, it was way beyond our expectations and we are truly grateful to everyone who contributed in some way.

“The total is a tribute to those at the ball, but also to those who donated prizes and worked tirelessly behind the scenes in the run up to the event.

“In particular, I must say a huge thank-you to one of our supporters, who always chooses to remain anonymous but who sponsored the entire event.

“His kindness means that all the money raised goes direct to funding patient care.”

Guests had begun the evening by singing an enthusiastic ‘Happy Birthday’ – not just to Trinity, but also to hospice president Jimmy Armfield, who blew out the candles on a cake specially-made for the occasion.

Hospice chief executive David Houston and medical director Dr Susan Salt both spoke movingly about the work of the hospice, and the thousands of local people it has provided compassionate care for over the years.

Guests also saw a short film which featured a Brian House parent, talking about how important the hospice is to her family.

Sitting down to a meal by Thornton restaurant Twelve, there was non-stop entertainment, with acrobats, fire eaters, live music and even a surprise dance act performed by members of the Trinity Hospice staff.

Linzi added: “Messages have been coming in since the ball from people who enjoyed the night and were really pleased to have been a part of it.

“As we always remind people, it is the generosity of local people which keeps our doors open and means that our care is free to those who need it.

“While we were enjoying the glamour of the ball, for the night shift at the hospice and for our hospice at home team, it was business as usual.

“Trinity is quite simply always there for people across the Fylde coast.

“Events such as the ball show just what an important place Trinity has in the local community – it means so much to so many people.”

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