AT THE beginning of this week’s meeting, Vice President Grenville Burrows led members in a minutes silence in remembrance of those tragically killed and injured in Manchester.

Following an update by Steve Swarbrick, Clive Allen recited a former member’s joke. Meanwhile Bill Underwood noted the effort that goes into the production of the Journal’s Grassroots section and encouraged readers to consider joining our Club.

We then warmly welcomed our guest speaker, Alice Spearing of the well known St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester.

Alice gave an assured, compelling and highly informative presentation. She began by explaining that the Hospice offers free expert care and support for Worcestershire adults and their loved ones affected by a life-limiting illness.

She described how St Richard’s, established over 30 years ago, costs some £15,500 a day to fund. As a charity, three quarters of their income comes from donations with the balance from the NHS.

She explained how they cared for 316 people from Evesham in 2016 where 4 community nurses are based. In total they care for 2,500 patients and loved ones each year throughout Worcestershire. Referrals are made by GPs, consultants, district nurses or health professionals

Alice concluded her talk with the assertion that “St Richard’s is not just a building – it’s a way of caring” as she invited us to the Free Open afternoon at the Hospice on Sunday 11 June.

She fully answered our searching questions many from those of us with personal experience of the issues involved. Phil Bawn thanked her on our behalf and commended her professionalism and remarked on the delightful snowdrop logo of St Richard’s Hospice.

We meet every Thursday at 10am at the Evesham Rowing Club's boathouse. Information about us, including our programme of talks, is on our website: www.eveshamprobus.co.uk.

CHRIS DONOUGH