ST Rocco’s Hospice has been a part of the Warrington community for more than 35 years.

During that time, both it and the town have changed significantly, but the hospice and the people of Warrington’s story remains heavily intertwined.

Now, the hospice wants to collect the stories of those Warrington residents whose lives have been impacted by St Rocco’s over the years.

All memories collected will be used to help other people who have lost family members or friends at the hospice.

Russ Fry, marketing and communications manager at St Rocco’s, said: “During the time it has been in existence, the hospice has had a direct effect on many people’s lives.

“From caring for patients and their families through to volunteers, donors, fundraisers, staff and ex-staff, people who worked to set it up in the 80s, ex-trustees and even the people involved in the new building in the late 90s – all have a story to tell, and we want to hear them.

“We want to document them and set up a special section on our website to store them, as we believe a lot of these will be inspirational and comforting to those whose loved ones passed in the hospice.”

Russ’ father sadly passed away at the hospice in 1988, and as well as the compassion and professionalism of amazing staff, the one thing that stuck in his mind was the building.

St Rocco’s calls for residents to share hospice stories to inspire and comfort others

St Rocco’s calls for residents to share hospice stories to inspire and comfort others

“Being a converted Victorian vicarage, it was a little sombre. All the patients were on the first floor in one large room, and that was my expectation of what a hospice was like,” he explained.

“When I came to work at St Rocco’s earlier this year, I was pleasantly surprised at how different the new building is.

“Being light and airy, it raises your spirits working here and it certainly seems to impact the atmosphere.

“Each patient now has their own en-suite bedroom with garden views, and it is positive and caring from everyone involved in the operation.

“From the nursing staff on the front line through all the ancillary staff that keep the hospice working smoothly to the fundraising team, all are committed to providing the best possible care.

“This in turn effects the mood of patients and their families in the best possible way.”

To share your St Rocco’s story, call Russ on 01925 575780 or email russellfry@stroccos.org.uk