STAFF from Sanctuary Group came to the aid of a Worcester hospice after it was targeted by thieves.
In a theft described as ‘despicable’ by the charity’s chief executive, St Richard’s Hospice had thousands of pounds worth of gardening equipment stolen from its site at Wildwood Drive last month.
On hearing the news, local housing and care provider Sanctuary, based on Castle Street, stepped in to offer its support to the hospice by carrying out gardening work on the grounds.
During the break-in, which saw trees cut down and fencing ripped out, a ride-on lawn tractor, mower and strimmer were all taken which had been paid for through kind-hearted donations to help keep the garden and grounds at the hospice in top condition.
Estates services staff from Sanctuary visited the charity to mow and strim the garden so it can continue to be used by patients at the hospice who enjoy the picturesque grounds.
Simon Clark, Sanctuary’s group director of housing, said: “Having supported St Richard’s for many years we were saddened to see news of the theft, like many from across the local community.
“We felt compelled to offer our support to the hospice by tending to the gardens which are so important to patients who are receiving valuable care from the charity.”
St Richard’s Hospice chief executive Mark Jackson, said: “The beautiful gardens of St Richard’s are so important to our patients and their loved ones, and offer a few moments of serenity at a very difficult time.
“We were very touched by Sanctuary Group’s kind offer to help our team of hospice staff and volunteers as they work very hard to keep the garden looking at its best despite the loss of vital gardening equipment.”
Sanctuary’s kind gesture comes as Worcester residents rallied together to raise more than £3,400 in 48 hours to cover the cost of the stolen items.
