On Saturday 21st July Rowcroft opened up its stunning hospice grounds in Torquay to members of the public.
A colourful afternoon of Pimms, tarantulas, Princess’s, Stormtroopers, home-made cakes and even a fire engine – Rowcroft’s Garden Party really had something to put a smile on everyone’s faces!
The annual event is an opportunity for local people to explore the Rowcroft estate and enjoy an afternoon of family fun and live entertainment.
The crowds were entertained with live music and performances from Stagecoach Performing Arts School, Preston Primary School the Rowcroft Hospice Choir, and a local swing band to name a few. There was a high attendance and fantastic support from the local community which all contributes to raising funds to support the hospice.
CEO Mark Hawkins said “Today is an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate the specialist palliative care we provide across South Devon which is only possible due to the support of our amazing community. People may not be aware but last year we cared for 2,027 patients, and conducted 10,573 home visits and 12,653 telephone calls to patients referred to our service.”
One of the special things about the Garden Party is that it also gives patients the opportunity to attend. Kevin Knight, a Rowcroft patient who is cared for at the Inpatient Unit joined in with the festivities.
Kevin said “I have really been looking forward to today. The Stormtroopers were fantastic and of course Darf Vader! If it wasn’t for peoples generosity and kindness, places like Rowcroft wouldn’t exist. I wouldn’t be able to enjoy myself if it wasn’t for team here – they do an excellent job. People never know that one day they might need Rowcroft themselves.”
It has been a busy summer for Rowcroft events and the fundraising schedule continues as Rowcroft ‘gears-up’ for Ride for Rowcroft in October. Visit the Rowcroft website to find out more.
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