Hospice fundraiser
Winter wonders at snowflake ball
St Andrew’s Hospice celebrated the longawaited return of a major fundraising event – and saw it raise an incredible six-figure sum which broke the charity’s record.
The charity’s popular Grand Snowflake Ball – taking place for the first time since November 2019 – collected a total of £260,000 to fund the vital work of caring for patients from across Lanarkshire.
Hospice officials were “overwhelmed” by the success of the event, raising the highest amount of money in the event’s history, with a spokesman calling it “truly a special night”.
More than 500 guests from businesses and groups across the country attended the glittering event at the Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central, which was hosted by comedian and broadcaster Des Clarke.
They enjoyed a meal, raffles and fundraisers, entertainment from saxophonist Matthew Ruddy and from Strathaven and District Pipe Band, and danced the night away to band WooHoo.
It was only the second in-person event staged by the hospice since the coronavirus lockdown, following its recent ladies’ dinner and cabaret at the Bothwell Bridge hotel which contributed more than £20,000 to its funds.
Deputy head of fundraising Louise O’Donnell said: “We are overwhelmed at the support shown at our Grand Snowflake Ball – we are truly astounded by the amazing generosity of our sponsors and supporters.
“This is an incredible amount of money which will help care for patients from across Lanarkshire at a time in their life when they need it most.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for attending, donating prizes and giving their time to volunteer at the event; it truly was a special St Andrew’s night for the hospice.”
St Andrew’s Hospice cares for up to 120 patients per week from across Lanarkshire who have lifelimiting illnesses – and staff need to raise £88,000 each week to provide their vital free care.
It was founded 35 years ago, and underwent a major £9 million transformation of its Henderson Street premises three years ago, creating 21 en-suite single rooms and three multi-occupancy rooms.
Hospice supporters are being encouraged to help raise further funds by taking part in a virtual Santa dash by being sponsored to walk, run or cycle 6km during December.
And the charity’s next fundraising event is a gintasting day with lunch and entertainment at Dalziel Park on January 30.