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Hundreds honour loved ones through St Michael's Hospice appeal

In memory: Richard Cyster and his late wife, Margaret (left), and Trevor Ingledew (right).

Hundreds of people have already dedicated handcrafted metal daisies in memory of loved ones as part of Saint Michael's Hospice's new remembrance appeal.

The charity launched its Dedicate a Daisy campaign last month, inviting supporters to dedicate one of 1,500 metal daisies while raising money for hospice care across the Harrogate district.

Sponsored by Dishforth Nursery Gardens, each £25 dedication funds the equivalent of one hour of nursing care at the hospice.

Among those taking part is Sue Broomhead, who has dedicated a daisy in memory of her dad, Trevor, who was cared for by Saint Michael's at home after treatment for throat cancer.

She said:

"My dad went downhill quite quickly and as a family we wanted to keep him at home as this was one of his wishes.

"Saint Michael’s couldn't have been more supportive at this difficult time and were there whenever we needed it.

"Nothing was too much trouble. We couldn't have cared for him without their help."

Sue's family also raised £1,145 for the hospice by taking part in this year's Knaresborough Bed Race.

She added:

"Since losing my wonderful dad we are doing all we can to raise money for this wonderful charity.

"Dedicating a daisy means we can raise much needed funds and have a very special reminder of my dad in the garden.

"My dad was a huge personality with an infectious laugh and is sadly missed by everyone who knew him."

Another supporter, Richard Cyster, has dedicated a daisy in memory of his wife, Margaret, who died unexpectedly earlier this year.

Richard, who has volunteered with Saint Michael's Hospice for more than 14 years, said:

"I have dedicated a daisy in memory of my wife, Margaret, who died suddenly and unexpectedly in February.

"I have volunteered with Saint Michael’s Hospice for over 14 years, 10 of which as a bereavement support worker for Just ‘B’.

"When it was my turn to face bereavement, it was Just B that I turned to for help. They did not let me down."

The appeal has also prompted acts of kindness, with one supporter purchasing an extra daisy so that someone facing financial hardship can still take part.

All 1,500 daisies will be displayed in the grounds of Saint Michael's Hospice this month, creating a remembrance installation that supporters can visit before taking their daisy home as a lasting tribute.

The appeal is open to everyone. To dedicate a daisy or find out more, visit saintmichaelshospice.org.uk/daisy or contact the Supporter Care team on 01423 878628 or supportercare@saintmichaelshospice.org.

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