A fundraising sports day will be a real family affair for the Byrams – and an emotional ‘thank you’ to The Kirkwood.

Brothers Steve and Wayne Byram and Steve’s daughter Amy will lead teams in The Mary Byram Sports Day in memory of Steve and Wayne’s mum who died in December 2022.

Mary Byram died in the in-patient unit at The Kirkwood and the family fun day will raise money for the hospice.

Steve’s company SB Homes will compete against Wayne’s Byram Construction and Amy’s business Empire House in Slaithwaite.

The event – on Saturday July 1 (11am-7pm) – will take place off Waters Road in Marsden and it’s likely to prove competitive with a tug-of-war, running games, rounders, archery, an egg and spoon race and biking all planned. 

The event will be a family fun day out, with spectators welcome to watch and make a donation on the day.

There will be an ice cream van, bar, food stalls, face painters, balloons and more.

Steve, Amy and Wayne will be team captains, while a scoreboard will be kept updated throughout the day to indicate who is winning.

Speaking about the event, Amy said: “The Kirkwood took care of my nana for six years following her heart failure diagnosis.

“She first started going for days out to the Braveheart sessions, where she’d not only learn about heart failure, but also take part in activities such as meditation and arts and crafts.

“At the time, she was nervous about going to new places by herself but they made her feel so welcome. She made new friendships, and her confidence grew.

“In the few days before she passed away, she was so brave, but her symptoms became unbearable to her, and she chose to go to The Kirkwood, a place she knew she would be looked after for treatment.

“Unfortunately, there was nothing they could do but they put her at absolute ease. The nurses and doctors were, quite literally, out of this world.

“As a family, we couldn’t have asked for more. From the priest who did a blessing, to the girls who came around to offer us drinks, we felt comforted knowing that our nana was surrounded by such calm professionals.

“We’re excited to raise some funds for the charity, whilst having some fun.”

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