A black-tie Farmers Ball held in Evesham has raised £22,500 for hospice care, in memory of a man from the Studley farming community.
Charlie Latham died in August 2024 after spending 25 days at the hospice in Worcester. He was also supported by St Richard’s at home before being admitted to the in-patient unit.
Charlie and his brother Mike Latham were involved in Studley Farmers from a young age and, along with others, went on to organise many social events for the farming community.
Mike said, “Our last Farmers Ball was in 2005, and Charlie really wanted to organise another one, so this was in his memory.”
The ball was organised by a committee, many of whom have a long association with Studley Farmers and knew Charlie well. They included Mike Latham, Maxine Stanley, Jim and Sally Green, Mark and Sarah Turner, Adam Tustain, Dave Allely and Rose Lewellyn.
Mike said: “It was hard work but it was worth it, and it was good fun working as a group.
“The weather was fantastic and we had 210 people attending. We had live music, an auction with some fantastic prizes and a fireworks display to end the evening.
“The whole point was to benefit St Richard’s and to raise awareness of their work. Those who came were so determined to give.
“People are already asking if we’re going to organise another ball next year and I’ve replied that if they organise one, I’ll come along!”
St Richard’s Hospice is an independent charity offering free, expert care for adults with an illness that cannot be cured, and support for their loved ones and carers.
Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,000 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.
It will cost in the region of £12m to run the hospice this year, which includes patient care and all the necessary support services.
St Richard’s relies on voluntary support, including from donations, gifts in Wills, retail and events for the majority of its income with the remainder funded by the NHS.
For more information about St Richard’s Hospice visit www.strichards.org.uk.