Themed open air concert at South Lodge raises thousands for hospice

South Lodge chose Chestnut Tree House, the children’s hospice service for Sussex, as their charity to benefit from the event and raised the money through ticket sales, selling raffle tickets at the event and donations for mini bus rides for guests down onto the lawns with their picnics and chairs.

General Manager David Connell commented: “We are so proud and delighted with the amount our open air concert raised this year for Chestnut Tree House and the generosity of our guests.

“This year we exceeded the number of guests we were expecting and are absolutely thrilled to support such a worthwhile charity.”

The cheque was accepted on behalf of the charity by Terrina Barnes, Corporate Fundraiser, who said: “The team at South Lodge have supported us for a number of years now to help us raise funds and awareness for Chestnut Tree House.

“It was a wonderful afternoon and it was particularly heart-warming to see the guests helping to raise money for the children and families we care for.

“It costs £3.5 million every year to provide our care services for the children and families at Chestnut Tree House and out in the community in the families; own homes.

“We receive just 7 per cent central government funding so rely heavily on events like this and wonderful supporters like South Lodge to enable us to continue providing our vital care right across Sussex.”

The services offered at the hospice include assessment, advice and information for children and young adults with life-shortening conditions, specialist short breaks, emergency care, step down from hospital, end of life care and bereavement support

Report and picture contributed by Chesnut Tree House.