Bristol Street Motors and St Oswald's Hospice Celebrate Surprise Raffle Win

Bristol Street Motors and St Oswald's Hospice Celebrate Surprise Raffle Win

Mr Ron George and Mrs Pat George with Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Bristol Street Motors

Bristol Street Motors has once again demonstrated its unwavering support for St Oswald's Hospice by donating a brand new Hyundai i10 Connect as the main prize for the Hospice's annual raffle, which raised an impressive £38,000.

The money raised contributes to the significant running costs of the Hospice, ensuring continued care and support for patients and their families.

As St Oswald's Hospice celebrates the 30th anniversary of its raffle, which has raised a remarkable total of £1.45 million over the years, the highlight of the campaign was the announcement of the car raffle winners – Mr Ron George and Mrs Pat George from Whickham. A long-time supporter of the charity, Mr George has been entering the raffle for 20 years – and has recently become an outpatient at the Hospice, receiving care with Lymphoedema.

Mr George, who is currently benefiting from St Oswald’s Hospice's Lymphoedema Service as an outpatient, has expressed his gratitude for the exceptional care and support he has received: “It’s been a lifeline, and has really helped me get well again and to continue living my life. The staff are wonderful, and the care really is exceptional.

“We have been aware of St Oswald’s for many years and have supported it throughout that time. The difference the Hospice makes to people’s lives is indescribable and it’s our pleasure to continue supporting their work, it’s so important for people in our local area and we need to keep it going."

In a commendable display of generosity, Mr George, who no longer drives, has sold the prize car back to Bristol Street Motors and has furthered his steadfast support for St Oswald’s Hospice by making substantial donations to both the Hospice and its dedicated Lymphoedema Service, which is the largest of its kind in the North East.

Mr George added: “We’re making a donation back to St Oswald’s Hospice. The rest of the money will be split between two or three local charities, who need help this winter. We’ve always supported local causes and it’s important to us to continue helping where we can, to make a difference to those in need.”

Kath Clark, Matron of St Oswald’s Hospice Day Services, said: “Our Lymphoedema Service cares for thousands of patients across the region – via the hospice and through our outreach programmes - and we are recognised as a regional centre for lymphoedema management.

“The donation Mr George has made to the hospice is incredible and everyone is very touched by his kind gesture.”

Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Bristol Street Motors, also shared his thoughts on the collaboration: "Supporting St Oswald's Hospice through this raffle is an honour for us at Bristol Street Motors. Knowing the difference that the funds raised make in the lives of those who rely on the Hospice's services motivates us to continue our partnership. Mr George’s decision to sell the car back to us and donate to the Hospice is a wonderful gesture, and one we were delighted to support.”