Panto Stars Visit Dr Kershaw's
5 Jan 2024 -- Posted by :
Actor and writer, Phil Mealey, who has starred in ‘Early Doors’ and ‘The Royle Family’ along with Oldham Panto legend, Jeff Longmore had some downtime just before Christmas between their pantomime shows, at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham where they were starring in Jack and the Beanstalk, and asked us if they could visit our Hospice.
To kick off their visit on Thursday 21st December they took part in a special Hospice Christmas Quiz going up against three teams of four members consisting of staff, trustees and volunteers.
They were then given a tour of the Hospice, and met some of their patients, family members and staff to spread some Christmas cheer.
Phil said: “It was lovely to visit Dr Kershaw’s again who cared so wonderfully for my cousin, Dave, five years ago. A lot has changed since then; the recent new build and the beautiful gardens add to an already warm and welcoming facility. I had a fabulous time along with my colleague and friend, Jeff Longmore. An amazing facility with such dedicated and friendly staff. We took on three teams in the quiz and had so much fun! Thank you for a memorable day.”
Jeff added: “We spent a brilliant afternoon at Dr Kershaw’s seeing the valuable work that the staff and volunteers do, all with love and commitment to making the Hospice the special place it is. We also met some of the patients, which was a humbling experience, seeing how happy and safe they felt there. Thank you to the Hospice for letting us visit.”
Adele Doherty, Hospice Chief Executive said: “It was great to welcome Phil and Jeff to the Hospice, it was a lovely treat before Christmas for our patients and their loved ones to meet them, and the quiz was fun for all who took part and watched too. Thank you to Phil and Jeff for giving up their time to visit us, it is very much appreciated!”
The panto duo met Hospice patient, Thomas and his daughter Paula Hickey, Paula said: “Jeff and Phil’s visit made dad smile, the Grinch came for a photo with him too and he loved it, and we even heard the school carol singers which was just lovely.”
Registered Charity Number: 1105924
Dr Kershaw’s Hospice
Turf Lane, Royton, Oldham OL2 6EU
phone: (0161) 624 2727