4:10pm Thursday 18th March 2010
By Dave King
Prospect Hospice’s chief executive Vicki Morrey paid tribute to staff and volunteers at a special presentation evening held at the Blunsdon House Hotel.
The head of the Wroughton-based charity is due to leave Prospect for a new job in London in a fortnight’s time, but said she had been extremely humbled by the gratitude expressed by award-winners that evening.
“Prospect has an abundance of talent, energy, loyalty and commitment in its staff and volunteers,” she said. “When planning this event I had no idea that I would be leaving, and I am so glad that it has taken place before I go. “I know that none of you do the job you do because of reward but what I am so very pleased to have the opportunity to do is to say that collectively, as well as individually, you are what makes Prospect special.”
Vicki said it was obvious by the humility and an almost embarrassment to accept the awards, that she had a team who work because they believe in what they do.
She later made a personal presentation to Sue Ramsey for her help around the hospice, and also the work she does on behalf of the chief executive.
Sue was one of a number of award winners during the evening, which included long-service honours, as well as team and individual presentations.
The ceremony was attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, John Bush and the Bishop of Swindon, the Rt Rev Dr Lee Rayfield, among a number of other guests, and it was hosted by BBC Wiltshire’s Sandy Martin.
The Lord Lieutenant presented a special individual award to Prospect employee Gary Faulkner who, during the recent snowy weather, kept the hospice going by transporting nurses to patients’ homes and getting staff into work.
“We have someone in our midst someone who relishes the chance to help out, who loves to be given a challenging request and saying ‘yes, no problem,’” said Mr Bush.
“He even made sure his magnificent team had enough sausages and bacon to feed an army!”
The President’s Award, which was announced by Prospect Hospice president, David Margesson, was given to Catherine Piggin, which was accepted on her behalf by Debbie Ho.
Catherine has responsibility for the community specialist nurses, both for the Prospect at Home and hospital teams, and Mr Margesson paid tribute to her saying the patient services team would struggle without someone who isn’t motivated by status or salary, but because she cares.
“Catherine always has a smile, no matter how much stress and pressure she may be under,” he said.
“You always come away with a warm glow after being with her.”
The Prospect Hospice also made a special presentation to Blundson House Hotel owners John and Carrie Clifford to mark to mark the hotel’s 50th anniversary and their work with the charity.
l Arkell’s presentation to Blunsdon House: Page 22
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