The Cirencester Supporter Group is headed up by Elaine Harris and Chrissie Howse, the group organises a calendar of fundraising activities each year, with all proceeds going to our hospice care.

In the last six months, events have included a Captains Charity Day at Oaksey Park Golf Club, a Christmas Craft Fayre at Egypt Mill in Nailsworth, and an Open Gardens event at Daglingworth House. The group also act as a key link in the community helping to establish relationships with other local organisations. Plans are currently underway for a Fish and Chip Quiz Night on March 11, which will be held at the Parish Hall, Watermoor at 7pm.

The group, which is currently made up of seven volunteers, is keen to attract new members.

Elaine explained:

“I’ve been involved in the Supporter Group for several years now, and would thoroughly recommend it! We work hard but have good fun too, and it’s incredibly rewarding knowing that the money we raise helps such a worthwhile local charity. Do get in touch if you’d like to join us – you’ll be guaranteed a very warm welcome.”

Longfield is a community hospice and provides free care, 365 days a year, for adults across Gloucestershire living with a life-limiting illness. As well as providing Hospice at Home care, the hospice also offers help and support to patients, families and carers through a range of Wellbeing services at its base in Minchinhampton.

Chrissie, who also volunteers in the hospice’s fundraising department and her local Longfield charity shop, added:

“I’ve been volunteering for Longfield since 2009 and it’s become a big part of my life now! I enjoy every aspect of it and have made life-long friends. I’m so pleased to be helping Longfield; it’s such a good cause and provides invaluable support to people in the local area.”

Louise Cook, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at Longfield, said:

“We’re so grateful to Elaine and Chrissie, and the other members of the Cirencester Supporter Group for their incredible work over the last few years. They raise a phenomenal amount of money for Longfield – we simply couldn’t provide free care to local people without this kind of fundraising.

Do get in touch if you’d like to join the Cirencester Supporter Group, or if you fancy starting a new supporter group in your local area. Remember every group is different and we will be with you every step of the way. We also have a range of volunteering opportunities at the hospice and in our charity shops – please get in touch if you’d like to find out more. We’d love to hear from you.”

To find out more about joining the Cirencester Supporter Group, email [email protected] or telephone 01453 886868.