St Barnabas representative Neil Francis was on hand to join in the celebrations as locals of the Plough in Henfield raised a fantastic £1,495 for the hospice during their World Cup Sweepstake draw last night (June 12). The draw, with part of the proceeds going to the Hospice, was organised by Graham Slade in thanks for their support of local families who benefit from the Hospice's wonderful care.
The Plough was standing room only as Graham, ably assisted by Steve Law, led a rousing rendition of 'Three Lions' followed by the nail biting draw of the teams by the 32 participants. Olivia Pugh from Hamfelds did a stirling job of handing round the ceremonial World Cup Coal Scuttle.
Local celebrity Paul Samrah finished the evening with an auction of (very authentic) World Cup memorabilia, including a wonderful impressionistic painting of the changing rooms in Maracana after the last whistle is blown, a 3/4 full bottle of Glenfiddich whiskey signed by Gazza, a commemorative football signed by Bobby Moore, the actual boots worn by Ronaldo himself, and two weekends in Marrakech. The auction raised over £1,000.
Neil commented; "This figure is enough to pay for our new Hospice at Home night time service for 5 evenings which really is an incredible achievement and make a huge difference to local people. All of our services remain 100% free to patients and families and this is only down to the hard work dedication and support of our local community and events like last night. Thank you and good luck to you all in the sweepstake!"
Pictured L to R: Neil Francis from St Barnabas, Karen Gold, landlady at The Plough, Graham Slade, Paul Samrah and Steve Law.