The singathon took place as part of Graham's final day on the hospice's 12-week programme

A hospice patient has raised £775 for St John's Hospice in Balby after smashing his fundraising target with a special singathon inspired by his experience at the hospice.

Graham Vincent, aged 75, from Bentley, originally hoped to raise between £400 and £500. Thanks to the generosity of friends and family, who sponsored him in the run-up to the event, he exceeded that target by raising an impressive £775.

The singathon took place on Wednesday 29 July in the Day Therapy Unit as part of Graham's final day on the hospice's 12-week programme. At the end of the event, Graham presented a cheque to members of staff.

Graham has been attending the Day Therapy Unit each week and says the support he has received inspired him to give something back.

Graham Vincent (front left) is pictured with staff and patients in the Day Therapy Unit at St John’s Hospice. | St John's Hospice

placeholder image — Graham Vincent (front left) is pictured with staff and patients in the Day Therapy Unit at St John’s Hospice. | St John's Hospice

He said: "The Day Therapy Unit is a fabulous place. It's so comforting, and I really look forward to coming every week.

“The staff are fantastic and make everyone feel so welcome. Richard, the Activities Coordinator, is so talented."

After learning that the hospice needs to raise more than £680,000 each year to continue providing specialist palliative and end of life care and support for local patients and their families, Graham decided to organise a singathon to support the hospice.

Music has always been an important part of Graham's life. He previously volunteered his time carrying out maintenance work at a local care home and organised musical fundraising events to support the home.

By combining his love of music with his desire to support the hospice, Graham's singathon has helped raise vital funds to support local patients and families who access its services.

Maureen Harwood, Hospice Fundraiser, said: "We're incredibly grateful to Graham for organising the singathon and choosing to support our hospice. To exceed his fundraising target is a fantastic achievement, and we're so thankful to everyone who sponsored him.

“The £775 raised will help us continue providing specialist care and support to local patients and their families when they need it most."