Celebrity Chef steps up the grill at BBQ Fundraiser

A CELEBRITY CHEF stepped up to the grill as he joined young people and staff to raise more than £2,000 for Francis House Children’s Hospice.

Simon Rimmer, who is co-presenter of Channel 4’s ‘Sunday Brunch’ was cooking on gas at the charity’s new beach hut at their Big BBQ fundraiser which ran throughout August.

The Hospice, which helps children across the North West, also asked supporters to invite their friends around for a BBQ in exchange for a donation.

Simon, whose restaurant Greens has held several fundraising events for Francis House, said: “A lot of people have no idea that Francis House exists, so if we get the chance to help raise a bit of money but equally to raise awareness of this tremendous set-up then that’s a bonus.

“As a parent myself I can’t begin to imagine how difficult it must be for the families here, so let’s do what we can to enable Francis House to exist.”

In the summer, the Hospice, which provides a fun and relaxing environment for children and young people with life-limiting conditions, opened a new seven-bedroom extension for teenagers and young adults.

Jaclyn Ollerenshaw whose three-year-old daughter Willow has congenital muscular dystrophy said the support from Francis House has been life-changing for their family.

She said: “It can be a lonely world once you get a diagnosis and you’re constantly on the go. To come here and meet other parents and know everyone is trained takes the pressure off and gives us all a chance to relax.

“It’s great for Willow but it’s also been a massive help for Willow’s brother Nick. He’s seven and just starting to realise family life isn’t the same for everyone but here he gets to mix with other siblings living in similar situations which is great.”

Reverend David Ireland, Chief Executive of Francis House who lives in Dobcross, said: “With the opening of our new building, Francis House has doubled in size, annual running costs are £3.6 million.

“We support more than 1,200 people with respite care, home care and bereavement support.

“The public backing our Big BBQ campaign helps us raise the funds we need towards providing these vital services.”