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Son shares moving tribute to mum's hospice care ahead of Christmas Day Dip

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

An Ipswich man has shared his family's experience of St Elizabeth Hospice care, ahead of the charity's annual Christmas Day fundraising event in Felixstowe.

Why it matters: The hospice provides free care to more than 4,000 patients and their families throughout the county each year, relying on fundraising events like the Christmas Day Dip to continue their vital work.

The big picture: Ross Dowsing's mother Heather, a lifelong Ipswich Town fan, received care at St Elizabeth Hospice until her death in 2023, aged 74, following a battle with cancer. His story offers a touching insight into the comprehensive support provided by the hospice.

"From the moment we entered the building, the care and support our family received, especially Mum, was second to none," said Ross. "Every single person there, employed or volunteer, was brilliant."

The Dowsing family at the hopice's inpatient unit
The Dowsing family at the hopice's inpatient unitSt Elizabeth Hospice

Behind the scenes: The hospice team went above and beyond to create a welcoming environment:

  • Staff would sit to chat, laugh or cry with Heather

  • They allowed family visits from grandchildren and even the family dog

  • One staff member painted Heather's nails to lift her spirits

  • The family personalised her space with photos and drawings from her granddaughters

In their words: "St Elizabeth Hospice is just so warm, relaxed and homely," Ross explained. "The biggest difference the team made for Mum was helping her in her down moments and keeping her as upbeat as they could."

The bottom line: While supporting patients like Heather, St Elizabeth Hospice relies on fundraising events like the Christmas Day Dip. Join hundreds of other dippers opposite Mannings Amusements in Felixstowe from 8.30am tomorrow, with the dip taking place at 10am. Registration is £20 on the day.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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