Charity’s new star will shine

If Jayne Secker brings as much energy, passion and enthusiasm to her role with Grace House as her mum Kathy did, then the charity has bagged itself a star.

Those of us who had the pleasure of meeting Kathy Secker could not help but be bowled over by her drive and commitment to this charity.

As the face of the respite centre, she was perfect for the role.

After years as a local TV presenter, everyone in the North East knew Kathy.

But as she proved time and time again, she was more than mere celebrity tinsel.

She was not only a great ambassador, speaking with passion about the project which would transform the lives of desperately ill children and their families, but she was hard-working and persuasive, fighting every step of the way to make sure the centre was built.

Thanks to her passion and commitment, she persuaded my influential people and businesses to back the cause.

That she died before the centre opened is a crying shame. That her daughter Jayne is now a patron, is reason to celebrate.

She too is a famous face on TV but, as her words today reveal, she is as passionate as her mum to see the centre thrive.

Jayne said: “Mum wanted to build a place to help families of children who were very ill; those with disabilities, had life limiting illnesses or were dying.

“Mum thought why not build a place the children could come and have fun and be happy and safe, while the rest of the family could get some much needed respite.”

She did just that and now her daughter Jayne is helping continue this marvellous legacy.

We trust her star shines just as brightly.