Bristol’s only adult hospice has been announced as the charity partner for Bristol International Balloon Fiesta – for the second year running.
St Peter’s Hospice will once again be the official charity partner for the fiesta, which runs from August 8-11 at Ashton Court Estate.
The hospice balloon – provided by Bailey Balloons – was tethered at the hospice’s paddock in Brentry to mark the announcement.
Special guest Robb Norton – added a touch of glamour to proceedings and also marked the hospice’s partnership with Bristol Pride in the festival’s 10th anniversary year.
The complete guide to Bristol Balloon Festival 2019
This is the second year the hospice has been a charity partner of the fiesta.
In 2018, the two iconic Bristol institutions joined forces as they both were celebrating their 40th anniversary.
Head of fundraising for the hospice Sarah Allen Gunn said: “We’re thrilled to be the charity partner for the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta again in 2019.
“Last year was a huge success for us – despite the frequent rain – and we were able to speak with hundreds of people across the weekend, highlighting the work of the hospice and also collecting donations to fund our work.
“The Balloon Fiesta is such an iconic event here in Bristol, we’re proud to be part of it and grateful to everyone on the organising committee for their support of the hospice.”
Robb works for Morgan Hunt, an important corporate supporter of St Peter’s Hospice, but began his career as a healthcare assistant alongside Dame Cicely Saunders, the founder of the hospice movement.
Robb said: “I was lucky enough to see the care Dame Cicely had and the passion to change end-of-life care.
“St Peter’s Hospice is much loved by the Bristol community, not only helping those who are ill, but also looking after their family and friends."
The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta runs from August 8-11 at Ashton Court Estate.
The world-renowned free event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to witness the spectacular mass ascents as over 100 hot air balloons take flight in mass ascents every morning and evening.
Jo Bailey of Bailey Balloons said: “We are always honoured to support St Peter’s Hospice and this year we are lending them a balloon for the fiesta, as it is a charity very close to our hearts.
“They have cared for my grandmother, my mother and close friends.
“Their support and care, for not only the patients, but their family and friends, is absolutely amazing.
"We are so lucky to have this facility in Bristol. Every community deserves to have such a professionally run hospice run by such passionate and dedicated people.”
St Peter’s Hospice is still looking for volunteers to help with bucket collections, selling merchandise, manning the hospice stand and setting up at the event.
Anyone who can help should contact Clemi Williams on clemi.williams@stpetershospice.org or call 01275 391404.
Bristol Pride fortnight runs until July 14 culminating in Bristol Pride day on July 13. St Peter’s Hospice is an official Pride Partner and will be taking part in the Pride Parade as well as having a marquee on the festival site offering information and advice, glitter, face painting and freebies.
For more information on the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk or follow @bristolballoon on Twitter and Instagram and @bristolinternationalballoonfiesta on Facebook.
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