Teddy bear fun for tots in aid of South Tyneside hospice

A daughter's love for her late father has sparked a second fundraiser in aid of the hospice that cared for him.

Sue Callender is aiming to raise £1,000 for St Clare’s Hospice in Jarrow to mark the first anniversary of her dad’s death next month.

Already she has £800 towards her goal with seven weeks left to go.

St Clare's Hospice toddle walkSt Clare's Hospice toddle walk
St Clare's Hospice toddle walk
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The fundraiser is the second she has done in memory of her dad who lost his battle with cancer last July aged 87.

Miss Callender has already raised the cash needed to enable the charity to purchase a specialist chair for those being looke after at the hospice.

With cash raised through bonus balls, raffles, afternoon teas and a toddle walk, she is well on her way to achieving her target.

A total of 14 youngsters took part in the toddle and were joined by Buddy the Bear from St Clare’s Hospice.

St Clare's Hospice toddle walkSt Clare's Hospice toddle walk
St Clare's Hospice toddle walk
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Miss Callender said: “The toddle event was brilliant. The youngest the person we had taking part was five months old and we had a grandmother who was in her 70s.

“Everyone had a great time. We danced, we sang and we laughed. One of the little girls had injured her foot but still wanted to take part so she took part in a wheelchair.

“Everyone has just been so nice and it’s lovely they’ve all wanted to get behind what I’ve been doing.”

She added: “We’ve lost the community centre but this has really helped to keep the community spirit alive and kicking on the estate.

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“The majority of people who have been helping were all people from the centre and who used to take part in the activities and sessions there. “My dad used to go to the play tots he loved to see the kids happy and having fun, he would have loved the walk and the picnic we had in the garden.”

St Clare’s Hospice based in Primrose Terrace, provides in-patient and day care services for adults with life-limiting illnesses.

The charity relies heavily on donations and fundraising events to enable them to continue to deliver the services they do.