Peter steps up for hospice role

A Staffordshire hospice has named one of its long-standing supporters as its new chairman.

Peter Durrant, from Alrewas, has been named as chairman of St Giles Hospice, in Whittington, after serving as deputy chairman for two years. He became a St Giles trustee in 1996.

Mr Durrant's involvement with the hospice, which cares for local people living with cancer and other serious illnesses, began in 1987 when he became a member of the fundraising committee. Recently he has chaired St Giles' governance committee.

A self employed career coach operating through a national consultancy practice, and a Business Link mentor, Mr Durrant said: "I'm delighted to step into the role of chairman of a charity which has been close to my heart for the past 20 years.

"The outgoing chairman, David Platt, has provided wonderful stewardship of the hospice over the past four years.

"He has ensured the views of the local community are heard and that the charity received strategic advice and direction, while professional staff undertake the day-to-day management of our magnificent local care services.

"My aim is to guarantee continued success during this exciting time of expansion for the hospice and I am looking forward to working closely with the community, the board of trustees and the management.

Hospice chief executive, Peter Holliday added: "Peter brings a wealth of experience and a deep knowledge of the charity to the position of chairman."

Patients come from across the hospice's catchment area, which ranges from Ashby de la Zouch and Atherstone in the east, to Cannock and Walsall in the west, from Burton and Uttoxeter in the north, to Sutton Coldfield and Coleshill in the south.

Care is offered at the hospice's facilities in Sutton Coldfield and Whittington or in patients' own homes across the region.

St Giles spends over £5million every year providing its specialist services.