Acorns’ patron and England and Warwickshire cricketer Ian Bell lit up the club scoreboard with a shining message of £15,000 raised for Acorns Children's Hospice.

 

The total was announced on the scoreboard message:  ‘£15,000 raised from Ian Bell testimonial year for Acorns Children's Hospice’ to mark his vital support toward helping to provide care for local life limited children.

 

David Strudley, Acorns Children's Hospice chief executive, said:  “This was a magnificent effort.   It is wonderful to have Ian’s support, as it costs £750 a day per child to provide Acorns’ services.  There is no charge to families and most of that money comes from fundraising.

 

“Ian’s help has been invaluable in raising awareness of his local children’s hospice and fundraising, including with Acorns’Coventrysupport group.  He has given excellent support to Acorns for more than ten years.”

 

The Ashes hero was last year made an Acorns’ patron in recognition of his support including fundraising throughout his benefit year with Warwickshire CCC.

 

Ian said:  “Acorns Hospice does a vital job in supporting hundreds of children and their families across theMidlands, and it was a privilege to assist that work.  It is rewarding to see the difference it makes to Acorns’ children.”

 

Ian was last year granted an Honorary Doctorate of Business Administration fromCoventryUniversityin recognition of his contribution to sport and charity.

 

To find out more about the work of Acorns Children's Hospice and how you can help raise vital funds call Acorns on: 0845 120 6892 or visit: www.acorns.org.uk