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45 Years Of Hospice Services On The Isle Of Wight Celebrated With Special ‘Torch Run’

Saturday, 2 April 2022 06:00

By Amy Shephard X @words_by_amy

The Isle of Wight has celebrated 45 years of hospice services with a special ‘torch run’.

Teams of staff from both Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Mountbatten Hampshire in Southampton ran from one hospice to the other, via the Red Jet.

The runners passed each other at the Red Funnel ferry terminal in Southampton, before continuing their route back to their respective site.

Each team carried a ‘flame of kindness’, made by Island artist Lisa Traxler to mark the 45th anniversary.

Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten CEO, said:

“The torch run gave us a wonderful opportunity to bring our hospices together to celebrate 45 years of kindness.

“Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Mountbatten Hampshire have now been working in partnership for three years, though remain separate charities supported by the communities they serve.

“This anniversary gives us a chance to raise awareness of our work across both sides of the water.

“The demand for our services in both areas is rising and the support of our respective communities is vital to us.

“It was really special to see our staff come together to run and support the event.”

Mountbatten Hampshire opened as Countess Mountbatten Hospice in 1977 and was the local hospice for Southampton and the Isle of Wight until 1982, when Mountbatten Isle of Wight, then Earl Mountbatten Hospice, opened on the Island.

Other events are planned to mark the 45th anniversary, including a service at All Saints’ Church, Ryde, on 12 May, and a sailing regatta, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, on 7 September.

An afternoon tea open to everyone will also be held at Mountbatten on 13 October.

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