Floral donation adds splash of colour to East Cheshire Hospice

The arrangement now has pride of place in the lush hospice gardens which provide a relaxing haven for both patients and visitors.

The flowers were donated by new furniture, kitchen and home interiors store Neptune Knutsford, which created a week-long display on Princess Street, by St John's Parish Church, to spread a touch of happiness amid the Covid gloom.

Each of the company's 27 stores nationwide took part in a campaign called #lovelytoseeyouagain with the flowers, which were placed in barrels, then donated to good causes.

Neptune chose the hospice in Macclesfield as the flowers' final destination.

Neptune Knutsford store leader Joanna Makant said: "Neptune placed the displays close to each of our stores with the aim of bringing a little cheer and joy after what everyone's gone through.

"The flowers were something for passers-by to enjoy and we're delighted they're now being appreciated by patients at East Cheshire Hospice.

East Cheshire Hospice - Google Maps image

"It's a lovely charity and covers the area of many of our customers.

"The garden there is so pretty and is overlooked by rooms on the ward, allowing patients and visitors to sit outside and enjoy the scenery.

"The flowers are artificial so will have a much longer life."

East Cheshire Hospice is the second-lowest funded in the country, receiving only 17 per cent of income from the Government.

The charity, which costs £7,500 a day to run, provides care for patients with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers, free of charge.

Kate Bowmar, corporate fundraiser at East Cheshire Hospice, added: "The flowers look amazing and we’d like to thank Neptune Knutsford for their kind gesture.

"Our gardens means so much to our patients and visitors, allowing them to enjoy their beauty and open space.

"Our hospice beds overlook the gardens and having such an attractive outlook nearby and within easy reach is hugely important."