Trinity Hospice’s Friends Groups have reached a remarkable milestone: between them, over the past 30 years, they have raised an amazing £1 million.

These dedicated people, from seven different groups covering the entire Fylde Coast, have played a massive part in fundraising over the years and prove that even small amounts of cash can add up to something incredible.

The million pound milestone coincides with Trinity’s 30^th anniversary, and out of 350 active members, 120 were at the hospice last week to accept a certificate and commemorative trophy on behalf of their groups; a small token of thanks from everyone at Trinity. Every Friends Group member is also receiving a badge in honour of the £1 million achievement.

The Friends Groups – Blackpool, Poulton, Over Wyre, Fleetwood, Lytham St Annes, Thornton-Cleveleys and Freckleton – comprise people of all ages who turn out in all sorts of weather to raise money for patient care at the hospice. Many have full time jobs and family commitments, but they are always out in the community, organising on average one fundraising event per group per month.

Lisa Martin, Community Fundraiser at Trinity said: “The Friends Groups actually pre-date the hospice buildings, and were instrumental in fundraising in the very first days, when the hospice was still on the drawing board.  They are a remarkable group of people, working hard on our behalf, willing to try new things and always  supportive as the hospice inevitably goes through changes as demand for its care increases year on year.

“I don’t think anything  deters them. They have had events in torrential rain or where their marquee has blown away in the wind, but they carry on regardless. They hold events in their own homes, they bake cakes, hold fashion shows and quiz nights – and they have probably sold a million tombola tickets over the three decades. Their generosity is second to none.

“You sometimes hear people saying that the ‘sense of community spirit’ has largely disappeared in recent years. We can honestly say that it’s alive and well here, thanks to the tireless work of the Trinity  Friends Groups.”

Money raised by the Friends supports both Trinity and Brian House Children’s Hospice. By building relationships with businesses and community groups in their towns and villages across the Fylde, they also help raise our profile and are valuable ambassadors in spreading our message of compassionate care.

Lisa added: “We have been looking back in the archives, and what comes across really strongly is how the collective efforts of so many people over the years really adds up to something special. An awful lot of work can go into an event which raises perhaps £150: but add up all those £150s and what do you get? A magic million!”