Peter and Janet Newell's Story

Janet and Peter Newell of Pocklington have been fundraising for St Leonard’s Hospice since 2009. Over the years they have raised more than £30,000 through coffee mornings, cheese and wine parties, bingo sessions and many other community events.

Their connection to the Hospice is a personal one. Peter’s father and Janet’s uncle were both cared for here, which inspired their fundraising.

Their fundraising began with coffee mornings and raffles, then in 2011 they expanded to selling cakes, books and jigsaws, along with running tombolas. Janet later began making shopping bags, makeup bags and aprons to sell, and in 2019 they introduced bingo sessions which quickly became very popular.

They have created many memorable moments along the way. In 2013 Peter completed a sponsored two-mile swim. At one of their cheese and wine evenings a local music student, Olivia, played Danny Boy on the accordion, a song that holds great meaning for Peter as it was played by a guitarist in the Hospice during his father’s final moments.

Janet and Peter describe their fundraising as a small contribution compared with what the Hospice has given their family and friends. Over the years many people they know have also had relatives cared for or supported by the Hospice, which has strengthened their commitment to continue.

As they both approach their eightieth birthdays they plan to slow down a little, but they remain determined to support the Hospice for as long as they can. They encourage anyone considering a coffee morning or fundraiser to give it a try. It brings people together, creates new friendships and helps sustain a service that means so much to so many.