Why not set yourself a challenge for 2024?
Last December, Wanda Hollingworth from Torquay gathered 28 walkers from her rambling group and set off on a six-mile adventure in Torbay, walking between some of Rowcroft’s shops and raising over £600 in donations for the hospice. It was a journey filled with fun, laughter and community spirit, and of course a bit of shopping along the way!
Stepping out for the hospice
“I belong to the Torbay Rambling group,” explains Wanda. “As a walk leader, I wanted to do something different to raise funds for the hospice. I had an idea to walk between some of Rowcroft’s Torbay shops, starting at St Marychurch and then walking via Babbacombe, Wellswood, Ella’s Café Lounge in Chelston, and then onto Preston to finish.
“It was a really great atmosphere and a lovely fun event; everyone seemed to really enjoy it. We loved stopping at the Rowcroft shops, and some walkers even did some Christmas shopping while they were there. In fact the group enjoyed it so much that they said they’d like to do it again next year!”
Raising funds for patient care
“We raised funds through donations from friends, family and other contacts – everyone was brilliant in offering their support. I find that people are usually very supportive when you mention you’re raising money for the hospice, as everyone knows what a special service it provides.”
A cause close to her heart
“My journey with Rowcroft goes back a long way. I joined the Friends of Rowcroft fundraising group and I used to volunteer with all sorts of fundraising events – including large events such as balls where we raised thousands of pounds for the hospice, and also smaller events such as coffee mornings. I continue to support the hospice now and I enjoy going along to the in-memory events such as Meadow of Memories and Light up a Life. My late-husband David used to love looking at all the flowers and plants in the Rowcroft gardens.
“I’m really pleased with how the walk went and it feels good to have raised so much money for such a great cause.”
Making a difference
Rowcroft relies heavily on the support of amazing people like Wanda to continue to provide care to 2,500 people every year. In the last six months, almost 500 individuals, groups and schools have held fundraising events in aid of Rowcroft.
If you’re inspired by Wanda’s story and would like to set a fundraising challenge of your own, then we’d love to hear from you. Please do get in touch with Debbi Shotton, Rowcroft’s Community Fundraising Officer, on 01803 210833 or email debbi.shotton@rowcrofthospice.org.uk.
Alternatively, please sign up for one of our organised challenges here.