Family's heartfelt tribute as they name first hare for hospice art trail

Why it matters: The naming pays tribute to James Dorman, who received care at St Elizabeth Hospice before passing away from cancer in 2022 at age 37, leaving behind his wife Claire and young children Amelie and Noah.

The details:

• Amelie (9) and Noah Dorman (4) submitted name suggestions, with "Skye" chosen by hospice staff and volunteers.

• The hare was designed by artist Loïs Cordelia, who has supported previous hospice art trails.

• Claire Dorman, James' widow, said: "We were so touched to be asked to name the first hare for the 2025 trail. The children chose the name Skye due to the sky-like painting on the sculpture."

Backstory: James was diagnosed with bowel cancer in March 2020. After initially being declared cancer-free in early 2021, the family's joy was short-lived when the cancer returned and spread in 2022.

Claire shared: "James was gorgeous, funny and just a wonderful husband and father. He was the kindest person I had ever met, never had a bad word to say about anyone and he was the most incredible husband and Daddy. Our two children adored him, we all did."

The hospice's impact: Claire recalls their experience: "The second we arrived at the hospice we were treated with kindness and dignity. The care we received from the nurses, doctors, support staff and countless volunteers at St Elizabeth Hospice was second to none and I will remember it for the rest of my life."

What they're saying: Claire added: "I'm so proud of Amelie and Noah, they understand how well the hospice took care of their Daddy and how well they continue to look out for us as a family. They are passionate in their support of the hospice in the same way that I am."

The big picture: Hop to it! Suffolk 2025 follows previous successful art trails like Pigs Gone Wild and Elmer's Big Parade Suffolk.

Key features:

• 38 decorated hare sculptures will be displayed

• For the first time, sculptures will be in Ipswich and satellite locations, including Beccles, Felixstowe, Lowestoft and Woodbridge

• Created in partnership with Wild in Art

What's next: The hospice is seeking businesses, organisations, schools, and individuals to support the trail through sponsorship, volunteering, or joining the Hopscotch learning programme.

The bottom line: The art trail aims to raise funds and awareness for St Elizabeth Hospice while engaging the local community in a creative public art project. This allows families like the Dormans to create lasting memories and honour their loved ones.