Broadmead shopping centre is preparing to raise precious funds for its newly appointed charity of the year - Marie Curie Cancer Care.

 

One of the UK’s largest charities, it employs more than 2,700 nurses, doctors and healthcare professionals, and expects to provide care to 27,000 terminally ill patients this year. It is best known for its network of nurses that work in local communities to provide end-of-life care, totally free for patients in their own homes.

 

To launch the start of the year-long relationship Broadmead will host a ‘Go Yellow Day’ on Saturday 17th April to raise money to fund specialist nurses in Bristol’s communities.

 

Taking place on Broadmead West, outside Marks & Spencer between 11am – 4pm, the area will be transformed into a sea of yellow.  A programme of interactive activities to entertain children will include the guest appearance of the Marie Curie Cancer Care mascot ‘Daffy’, face-painting and a host of children’s entertainers including a balloon modeler, a plate spinner and a real life statue.

 

Stores across Broadmead, including big brands like Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s and independents including Antics will be providing opportunities for shoppers to donate to the charity from offering assistance with bag packing, to having collection tins at till points.

 

Alongside this, additional fund-raising is already well under way as Broadmead Project Manager, Jo Hawkins and John Hirst, Operations Director, Destination Bristol, kick-start the partnership by running the London Marathon (April 25).

 

Jo Hawkins said: “Broadmead has always been at the heart of Bristol and we wanted to partner with a charity that plays a vital role on the ground, supporting our communities.  

 

“We have a fantastic launch planned and with the enthusiasm and backing from our stores we hope to be able to substantially contribute to Marie Curie.

 

“There is always a reason to visit Broadmead, especially for our great variety of stores which provide something for everyone.  Our partnership with Marie Curie will bring an additional selection of great fundraising activities to our programme of events aimed at animating the streets of Broadmead this year. We hope all our shoppers will get behind us and give people across Bristol the chance to benefit from the phenomenal care that Marie Curie provides.”

 

Penny Reeves Regional Corporate Development Manager, said: "We are delighted that Broadmead and all the teams are supporting us as Charity of the year 2010/11. We are so grateful for this opportunity as each £20 raised will enable us to care for another hour for someone in the local community. Enabling families to remain together and patients can be cared for in their own homes giving terminally ill patients the dignity they deserve.”

 

For more information on Marie Curie Cancer Care visit www.mariecurie.org.uk or to sponsor Broadmead in the London Marathon please visit http://www.justgiving.com/johawkins or www.justgiving.com/pappajonny