Month: April 2023

Get ready to be swept away by the enchanting world of Disney at the annual Flower Festival at Willow Wood! Join us on Saturday, May 13th at 10am and Sunday, May 14th at 11am for a magical experience you won’t forget.

 

This year’s theme is “Inspired by Disney”, a celebration of 100 years of Disney Animation. Expect to see an array of enchanting and whimsical displays that bring your favourite Disney characters to life. The festival promises to be a visual treat for all ages.

 

But the festival isn’t just about the floral displays. There will be plenty of other activities and entertainment to enjoy throughout the weekend. From hand crafted upholstery, greeting cards, wooden garden items to chocolate stalls, there’s something for everyone. And that’s not all! We have Hanging Basket Demonstrations on Saturday, Disney song performances by Mike Styan and Friends on Saturday, and a Ukulele Band on Sunday. You can also enjoy delicious sandwiches, cakes, and drinks, including Pimms and Prosecco.

 

Moreover, the festival is a fundraising event for Willow Wood, a charity that provides care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses. By attending the festival, you’ll not only be able to enjoy the stunning floral displays but also contribute to a great cause.

 

To kick off the festivities, the Mayor and Mayoress will open the festival at 11 am on Saturday. Plus, you can take part in the raffle and win exciting prizes.

 

Entry is just £3.50 with free admission for children.

 

So, mark your calendar and come along to celebrate 100 years of Disney Animation while supporting a great cause. Don’t miss out on this Enchanting Experience, and we can’t wait to see you there!

On April 12th, 2023, Willow Wood Hospice welcomed the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mrs. Lorraine Worsley-Carter MBE DL, to the hospice, along with other distinguished guests. Mrs. Worsley-Carter’s visit was a testament to her commitment to supporting charitable organizations that make a positive impact on the local community.

During her visit, Mrs. Worsley-Carter spent time with volunteers and staff, recognizing their dedication to supporting patients and their families during difficult times. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you all as staff, all volunteers. Because we all know that volunteers are the very fabric of what makes Greater Manchester and this area just what it is.

It has been an utmost pleasure, and it’s a privilege for me to be here today to meet you all.”

Philip Millson, Chairman, also welcomed the guests including the Mayor and Mayoress, saying, “Thank you for making time to come and get an insight into the work the hospice does and how we care for people in our communities in Tameside and Glossop.”

During the visit, Clinical Director, Nicola Cheetham and Medical Director, Dr. Neil Pender gave the High Sheriff a tour of the hospice where she was able to meet with some of the patients. The visit provided an excellent opportunity for the High Sheriff to learn more about Willow Wood Hospice’s work and how it helps those in need.

Willow Wood Hospice is grateful for the support and recognition provided by the High Sheriff’s visit. The hospice’s staff and volunteers are committed to making a positive difference in the community and providing care and support for those in need.

On Friday 17 March 2023, the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham was filled with excitement as twelve couples competed for the coveted Strictly Glitterball Trophy. Six couples from Willow Wood and six from Dr Kershaw’s Hospice had committed to learning a dance routine and performed it in front of a live audience.

 

This year’s theme was “Best of British” in celebration of the upcoming coronation of King Charles, and it was a special night out for all. The event not only supported two fantastic hospices in the community, but it also featured special guests who provided a full evening of entertainment and fun.

 

The evening was a huge success, and the winners of the event were Thomas Cochrane and Luke Cregan, who brought the trophy home for Willow Wood Hospice. The couple wowed the audience with their impressive dance moves. Thomas Cochrane who is self-taught choreographed the dance for the couple impressing the Judges enough to win the dance off and bring home the trophy.

All proceeds from the event were split between the two hospices, and it was a fabulous night out enjoyed by all who attended. It was an excellent opportunity to support a great cause and enjoy a night of glitz, glamour, and dancing.

The Willow Wood Choir has raised an incredible £5000 for palliative care, providing comfort and support to those in need. With their amazing talent and dedication, the choir has made a significant impact on the community and we are grateful for their support.

 

The fundraising effort was recognized by Ian Wicks, Head of Finance, and Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising & Communications, who personally thanked the choir for their efforts. The £5000 raised will go a long way in supporting and providing critical care to the patients of Willow Wood Hospice

“We are thrilled to recognise the Willow Wood Choir for their incredible contribution,” said Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising & Communications for Willow Wood Hospice “Their talent and dedication are an inspiration to all of us, and we are grateful for their support in making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

 

The Willow Wood Choir is a group of volunteers who since 2004 have been singing and raising funds for the Hospice. They have performed all over Tameside and Glossop as well as at special occasions at the hospice itself, such as at the Garden of 1000 lights. They are an example of the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together for a common cause. Their efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of those who have received palliative care at the hospice.