There was exceptional funds raised at British Red Cross Great Spring Gardening Event as it returned to Newport House in Almeley Herefordshire this April hailing a resounding success. Celebrating 20 years of this prestigious horticultural occasion it raised approx £29,000 and welcomed 1500+ visitors.
A wonderful luncheon with regional dignitaries and senior executives of the British Red Cross was held in honour of the Countess of Darnley HM Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire, with locally sourced produce from Sally’s Pantry, Radnor Hills Mineral Water Company, James Gourmet Coffee and Bartonsham Farm Dairy all prepared and served by British Red Cross volunteers.
The British Red Cross is only able to facilitate this amazing community fundraising event, which is the largest in the UK, with the support of many local businesses and services, including that of banking giant Barclays who manned the gate and counted the funds. Balfour Beatty Living Places Ltd. lent the yellow road signs, waste bins and continued volunteer support. Quick Skip in donating a skip allowed the beautiful grounds, that were very kindly given over by Mr and Mrs David Watt at Newport House, to remain tidy.
CW Marquees, the main event sponsor, continued their support with the two large marquees and Impact Printing donated the event leaflets this year. ‘It really is this terrific community spirit that makes it all possible and we can’t thank everyone enough’ said Debra Tritton, regional President and Chair of the event.
The money raised will assist to support people in crisis by funding the British Red Cross (BRC) Services including their Support at Home service, Assisted Hospital Discharge, Mobility Aid loans such as wheelchairs and commodes. BRC provides Emergency Response services – such as assistance during severe weather and fires. You will no doubt be aware of the incredible support they provided to victims and families of the recent atrocities in Manchester and London. They are here 365 days to serve the communities.
Photo L-R
Debra Tritton President BRC Hfds/Shrops/Worcs, Mark Astarita OBE BRC Executive Director of Fundraising, Jenny Watt owner Newport House, The Reverend Lady Lisvane High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Cllr Brian Wilcox Chairman Herefordshire Council and Linda Wilcox, former Mayor of Hereford Jim Kenyon, Lawrence Banks CBE and The Right Worshipful Mayor of Kington Cllr Elizabeth Banks, Richard Lawrence Deputy Chief Fire Officer H&W Fire and Rescue Services, Lady Darnley, Sue Thomas Local Policing Commander for Herefordshire West Mercia Police, Dr Alasdair MacDonald Contracts Director Balfour Beatty Living Places, Nicci Walmsley BRC Head of Community Fundraising, Stephen Tongue BRC Manager Northern Region and National Events, Tamsin Westhorpe BRC Open Gardens Ambassador, Heidi Chamberlain-Jones Vice President BRC Hfds/Shrops/Worcs, Lynne Bowers Vice President BRC Hfds/Shrops/Worcs, Mrs Rob Hurst RHS Chelsea Judge.