Star trio become faces of hospice

Angela Monaghan, who is part of the Friends of St Matthew’s Churchyard group and Lightcliffe Women’s cricket team, is the CEO at Martin House Children’s Hospice.

She has recruited the help of Embrace drummer Mike Heaton, ITV Calendar’s Christine Talbot and Yorkshire cricketer Ryan Sidebottom to help raise the profile of the facility for children with life-limiting illnesses.

“We are delighted to now have three ambassadors in these very important new roles for the hospice,” she said.

“We value the time and commitment that they dedicate to Martin House; from attending events and fundraising for us, to spreading the word and encouraging others to take part. We hope that they will enable us to raise the profile of the hospice and the work that we do in supporting more than 340 families across the Yorkshire region.”

Mike Heaton’s involvement with Martin House started in 2009 when he was asked to endorse the new Centre Stage fundraiser.

“Having young children myself and recognising the importance of music therapy within the hospice, I felt a strong affinity, both as a parent and as a musician.”

Christine Talbot has been a supporter of the hospice for many years.

“I have covered many stories about Martin House during my years as the presenter of ITV Calendar and that gave me an opportunity to get to know the amazing people who run it and stay there.

“It also happens to be on my doorstep and as a Wetherby resident I know how close Martin House is to this community, as well as to the wider area.”