Rotary Club of Hornchurch and Upminster

HELP FOR ST FRANCIS HOSPICE –

ROTARY SHOWS THE WAY 

On a delightful early September Sunday on 6^th September, well over 60 walkers joined with members of the Rotary Club of Hornchurch & Upminster to raise money for St Francis Hospice on the Club's 15^th Sponsored Walk. 

The weather was fine, the sweeping Essex countryside near Thorndon Park was a picture, and the walkers enthusiastic as they strode out to fulfil their Sponsorship promises – led by the indomitable Paul Freedman MBE veteran of many marathons and fund raising activities. 

Paul said, launching the walk, 'It's great to raise money for St Francis Hospice; they do so much good in our community'. 

Rotary District Governor John Banks and his wife Maureen joined the walk saying 'Rotary is in the forefront of work to support local charities like St Francis who provide  such support for those in need in Essex and Havering' 

He was backed up by Hornchurch & Upminster Rotary Club President, Brian Taffs, who said 'This is a great opportunity for all the Club to work together, whether as marshals at key points along the route, or the admin team taking the sponsorship money and handing out detailed maps – not forgetting Rotarians raising money themselves for St Francis by escorting groups of walkers along the way – a true team effort!' 

With sponsorship money still coming in from businesses and firms supporting Rotary and St Francis, the sum raised so far is over £4,000, with more to come!  

Rotary Club Press Officer, Dick Palmer, said while on the walk, 'We're delighted to be supporting St Frances Hospice once again, and over the years we've raised  about £70,000 for the hospice – every penny of which is used to help those most in need.'