Much-loved Cumbrian presenter, Val Armstrong has become an ambassador for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice.
Val, a popular presenter with CRFM and formerly of BBC Radio Cumbria, is a longstanding supporter of the hospice and will now play a key role in raising awareness of its work across the region.
The charity offers specialist care and support for adults and children with life-limiting illnesses across Cumbria.
Val will be attending a special volunteer thank you event on Sunday, 13th October, where she will join hospice volunteers for an afternoon tea at Morton Manor. This event is being held to recognise the continued dedication and hard work of the hospice’s volunteers, and Val is scheduled to deliver a speech during the event, sharing her personal experiences with the hospice and thanking the volunteers for their support.
In August, Val played a significant part in the hospice’s Garden of Memories event at Bitts Park, Carlisle, where she led the service marking the 10th anniversary of the garden. This event allowed the community to gather in remembrance of their loved ones, and Val’s involvement was instrumental in creating a meaningful occasion for those in attendance.
Speaking about her appointment as an ambassador, Val said:
“Like everyone, I knew of the great work that goes on at Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice. We all know people who have been touched by the services offered. But it wasn’t until my good friend Catherine was looked after at the end of her life that I truly understood the impact on a personal level.
“The care the team offered was second to none and made a real difference not just to Catherine, but also to Catherine’s family and her friends. It is a very special environment – so calm and caring – and it seems odd to say, but we were able to be happy and to laugh because the team took the pressure off us all.
“I am really delighted to be an ambassador for the hospice because I know the real difference the team makes.”
Julie Clayton, CEO of Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, added:
“We are thrilled to welcome Val as an official ambassador for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw. Her personal connection to the hospice and her longstanding dedication to the community make her a perfect fit for this role. We look forward to working closely with Val to continue raising awareness of the hospice and the vital care we provide to families across Cumbria.”