County Cricketers visit St Margaret’s Hospice
Tom Abell, Ben Green and Roelof van der Merwe from Somerset County Cricket Club visited us at our Taunton Hospice site this week, on 12 June 2024.
The top County cricketers toured the hospice, learning about the extensive care provided to individuals in Somerset to help them live well and die well.
Their visit concluded in the Sunflower Centre, which provides specialist support and advice for patients with life-limiting illness or advanced progressive conditions. The service is for individuals who are well enough to remain at home but need to access the specialist support that St Margaret’s can offer. The holistic approach of the team at St Margaret’s Hospice addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients, helping them develop coping strategies, maximise independence, and enhance their quality of life.
During their visit, the cricketers engaged with patients, had photographs taken, signed autographs, and enjoyed conversations with those eager to meet the cricketing heroes. Patricia Rimmer, a day centre attendee, expressed her joy, saying, “It was so wonderful to meet them. I always enjoy my visits to the Sunflower Centre, but meeting the cricketers, who were so lovely really made the day for all of us.”
The Somerset County Cricket Club is also backing our upcoming fundraising event, The Big Somerset Cricket Bash, on June 30. Speaking of their visit at the hospice Tom Abell said, “Seeing the incredible care that is given by St Margaret’s is humbling and makes me proud to say that the County Cricket Team are supporting such a worthwhile cause. We really hope you’ll (everyone will )join us at the Big Somerset Cricket Bash.”
The day will commence at the Taunton hospice, where participants will enjoy a bacon sandwich and receive an official event t-shirt. They will then embark on a scenic 5km walk to the County Cricket ground, honouring loved ones or simply enjoying time with friends.
Upon arrival at the cricket ground, participants will receive a complimentary pint of cider before taking their seats for the 11am toss. The Somerset team will face off against the Warwickshire Bears in the County Championships, with a full day of entertainment, food, and drink planned.
Tickets are still available at just £35 for adults and £20 for children and can be purchased here. For every £65 raised through the bash, one patient could attend the day hospice in St Margaret’s Sunflower Centre for one day.