An incredible £16,106.79 has been raised for Mountbatten Isle of Wight following a Summer drinks reception held on the lawns of the historic Barton Manor.
The annual event, held this year on 18th July, welcomed broadcaster, author and gardener Alan Titchmarsh CBE – a long-standing Patron of the charity – who praised Mountbatten as “a beacon of excellence, of compassion, of care and of kindness”.
Alan added:
“I know, having lived on the Island for 25 years, just what Mountbatten achieves and the respect in which it is held across the country. I am delighted to do whatever I can to help.”
Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés served by David Rogers and the All About Catering team, on what turned out to be a balmy summer’s evening. Entertainment was provided by live jazz band Cat Skellington, while a raffle featuring prizes such as meals at The Smoking Lobster and RT Café Grill, a wine tasting experience at The Terrace in Ventnor, artwork and bottles of fizz helped to boost the fundraising total.
Lady Cheshire, Patron of the Friends of Mountbatten, commented:
“Mountbatten Isle of Wight is an exceptional charity. Its expert staff support so many people in our community.”
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During the evening, outgoing CEO Nigel Hartley MBE thanked organisers Kate, Kate, Katharine, Kim and Dawn for their efforts, and also paid tribute to sponsors Spire Healthcare, Spence Willard, Glanvilles Damant, PC Consulting, Savills and Bright Brown.
Special thanks were extended to Dawn and Alex Haig-Thomas for once again hosting the event at their stunning home.
Nigel, who is stepping down after 15 years at the helm, emphasised the growing importance of regular giving:
“Regular support from the Friends of Mountbatten makes a huge difference to what Mountbatten Isle of Wight can achieve and for that, we are hugely grateful.
“Being generous every month, whether that’s in the form of a few pounds or more, allows us to expand and develop our wide-ranging services and helps ease the pressure we face at a time of proposed funding cuts, among financial challenges.”
Also attending the celebration were incoming CEO Becky McGregor and Chair of the Board of Trustees, Sir Ian Cheshire.
An amazing and totally worthwhile cause! Mountbatten touches every corner of our Island Community….even if we don’t realise it!
Its partnership with KissyPuppy – The Sophie Rolf Trust; which led to Mountbatten being the first hospice in the UK to provide care for both adults and children alike, within the same building, is even more reason to get behind this valuable asset!