Anchors away for hospice

Keech Hospice Care staff are taking part in the Round the Island race on June 27 to raise funds

They’re taking part in the Round the Island yacht race, part of a fundraising marathon organised by Dunstable dad Mark Richardson.

His wife Jackie died at the hospice last year and the father-of-four was so grateful for the tender loving care given to them and their daughters during this difficult time that he vowed to do everything possible to help.

It started off with a 10km challenge by his friend Hugh Vyvyan of Saracens and graduated to the Round the Island race.

Now there are eight boats competing under the hospice livery for the Keech Trophy, designed by military artist Ivan Berryman.

Keech boss Mike Keel said: “The fact that this has moved from idea to reality so fast is completely down to Mark’s and his daughters’ enthusiasm, energy and total commitment to the project.”

The famous 50 nautical mile course round the Isle of Wight takes place on June 27.

They’ve already raised £25,000 towards their £30,000 target. Support them at www.justgiving.com/teams/GoTeamKeech