Walking in memory at Rowcroft’s Big Tackle
Father and daughter duo, Jon and Eva Scott from Paignton, took part in The Big Tackle in March 2024 in memory of Jon’s late grandmother, June, who was cared for in Rowcroft’s Inpatient Unit before she passed away seven years ago. With The Big Tackle 2025 now open for sign-ups, Jon and Eva say they can’t recommend the event highly enough – it’s a great way of supporting the hospice and helping Rowcroft to deliver vital care to patients and their loved ones across South Devon.
“The Rowcroft team did such an amazing job for my nan; they were so caring and they made sure she was comfortable and peaceful to the end,” said Jon. “She was able to look out on the beautiful gardens, which she loved.
“As a charity, Rowcroft means so much to me; it’s one of the charities that I really love to support, especially because it’s local. It was great to see the amazing community spirit of so many people joining The Big Tackle and raising money for the hospice; even if they only raised a small amount, it all adds up and makes a big difference.”
The Big Tackle event kicked off at the Torquay Rugby Club and included over 700 participants who raised a combined £90,000 for the hospice. Jon and Eva raised a staggering £300 through their fundraising walk. Their journey included a stop off at Rainbow House, in the grounds of the hospice, where they paused to hang a tag in June’s memory on the stunning magnolia tree.
“I know that the hospice needs our support because as a charity it’s mainly funded by the local community,” continued Jon. “It was wonderful to see so many people turn out to support the hospice on the walk. Even in the rain people turned out in force to support Rowcroft!
“Nanny June was looking down at Eva and I know she will be so proud of her.”
“It was a fun day out and I really enjoyed The Big Tackle walk,” said eight-year-old Eva. “The best thing was that some of the volunteers gave out treats like crisps and lollypops!”
When is The Big Tackle taking place in 2025?
Next year’s Big Tackle has been announced for Saturday 15 March and will include the same line up: an eight-mile walk around Torquay, a free pint and pasty, and the screening of the Six Nations Rugby match, this time between England and Wales.
Rowcroft needs the support of its community to continue its vital work, so please do consider joining. To find out more and register your interest, please go to: www.thebigtackle.org.uk