At The John Smith’s Stadium last Saturday, the handover of a giant key at half-time during the Huddersfield Town v Hull City game recreated the moment when, 10 years ago this month, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice first received the keys to its brand-new hospice building.
Town’s mascot Terry the Terrier and Forget Me Not’s Russell Bear led the cheers as match spectators and Forget Me Not staff, volunteers, supporters and some of the families cared for by the charity, helped Forget Me Not celebrate the 10th birthday of this vital local children’s hospice.
Speaking pitchside at half-time, Gareth Pierce, director at Forget Me Not, said: “It’s 10 years since we received the keys to the hospice and since then we’ve supported hundreds and hundreds of children and their families. We want to thank everyone here for their support over the last 10 years and for marking this really special occasion with us.”
There was plenty of Forget Me Not fun happening outside the stadium too, as people took 10th birthday selfies with Russell Bear, while across Huddersfield Forget Me Not volunteers raised awareness of and vital funding for the charity.
After the event, Gareth said: “Without the support of the local community, our hospice wouldn’t be here at all. So it’s been absolutely amazing to share this celebration with so many people today!”
“When you think that most of the money we receive to fund our vital services comes from local people fundraising, donating, shopping in our shops or playing our lottery, reaching this milestone is a huge achievement.
“It’s testament to the generosity and dedication of the local community who have really taken Forget Me Not to their hearts. We couldn’t be more grateful.”
People can show their support for Forget Me Not by texting 10YEARS to 70450 to donate £10. Texts cost £10 plus one standard rate message.
READ MORE: When Princess Beatrice planted a time capsule to mark the 10th anniversary
