Mountbatten celebrate 45 years with ‘torch run’

By IW Observer.co.uk Apr 14, 2022

Mountbatten Isle of Wight has celebrated 45 years of hospice services with a special ‘torch run’.

Staff teams from Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Mountbatten Hampshire, in Southampton, ran from one hospice to the other, taking the Red Jet in between. The runners passed each other at the Red Funnel ferry terminal in Southampton, before continuing their routes back to their respective sites. Each team carried a ‘flame of kindness’, made by Island artist, Lisa Traxler, to mark the 45th anniversary.

Mountbatten CEO, Nigel Hartley, said: “The torch run gave us a wonderful opportunity to bring our hospices together to celebrate 45 years of kindness.

“Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Mountbatten Hampshire have now been working in partnership for three years, though remain separate charities supported by the communities they serve.

“This anniversary gives us a chance to raise awareness of our work across both sides of the water.

“The demand for our services in both areas is rising and the support of our respective communities is vital to us.

“It was really special to see our staff come together to run and support the event.”

Mountbatten Hampshire opened as Countess Mountbatten Hospice in 1977 and was the local hospice for Southampton and the Isle of Wight until 1982, when Mountbatten Isle of Wight, then Earl Mountbatten Hospice, opened on the Island.

Other events are also planned to mark the 45th anniversary, including a service at All Saints’ Church, Ryde, on May 12, and a sailing regatta, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, on September 7. An afternoon tea, open to everyone, will also be held at Mountbatten on October 13.