Record £150,000 raised in Rowcroft Hospice Big Tackle walk

A record-breaking £150,000 has been raised for Rowcroft Hospice after around 1,500 people took part in the charity’s Big Tackle fundraising walk in Torquay.

The eight-mile event, held on Saturday 7 March, is the most successful in the fundraiser’s history and will provide a vital boost to hospice services across South Devon.

Participants of all ages set off from Torquay Rugby Club, following a scenic coastal route around the town before returning to the club for a celebratory finish.

Many walkers took part in memory of loved ones who had received care from the hospice. Along the route, participants passed through Rowcroft’s gardens, where they were invited to leave tags on the hospice’s magnolia “Memory Tree” in tribute to those they wished to remember.

At the finish line, walkers were welcomed with a pint and a pasty in the marquee while watching Six Nations Championship action as England national rugby union team faced Italy in a match that ended with Italy beating England for the first time ever in the Six Nations tournament.

Among those taking part were William Foulds, 45, from Torquay and his sons Oliver, 16, and Henry, 12. Together the family raised £200 for the hospice.

William said:
“We had a family friend who passed away at Rowcroft Hospice five years ago, so we thought The Big Tackle walk would be a great thing to do to raise money to support the hospice. It’s a wonderful local charity, and this is a fantastic community event. We’ve really enjoyed it.”

Bruce Springett, 53, walked in memory of his mother Wendy Rendle from Dartmouth, who was cared for by Rowcroft before she died in 2023 at the age of 81.

After placing a tag on the Memory Tree, Bruce said:

“Magnolia was one of Mum’s favourite trees, so this is a fitting tribute to her. She really loved the gardens at Rowcroft. Today’s Big Tackle has been fantastic - there’s been a great atmosphere; we’ve enjoyed every minute. We’ll definitely be back again next year!”

John Cummings-Lee-Hynes, 60, volunteered at the event in memory of his late husband James.

“I am volunteering today because of all the support and care that James received from Rowcroft at the end of his life. The Rowcroft team were absolutely fantastic and they enabled James to be at home for his final moments.”

Alison MacMillan, Deputy Lieutenant of Devon, attended the event on behalf of Charles III and David Fursdon. She praised the work of the hospice and its supporters.

“The Big Tackle perfectly highlights the incredible work of local charities like Rowcroft Hospice and the Rapid Relief Team (who are providing the BBQ at the event) and how they work in collaboration to support those in need in our community. I know from personal experience about the work of the hospice and the compassionate care that Rowcroft provides across South Devon. We’re really fortunate to have such a world class service in our community and we must do all we can to support it.”

Rachel Haime, Events and Projects Fundraiser at Rowcroft Hospice, said the scale of support this year had been extraordinary.

"This year’s Big Tackle has been unbelievable! It’s been a day full of fun, energy, and community spirit at its very best. It’s been incredibly moving to see so many people walking in memory of loved ones, or simply here to support the hospice. The record-breaking numbers and funds raised show just how much our community truly cares.

“We’d like to say a massive thank you to all our brilliant walkers, volunteers, supporters and donors, as well as Torquay Rugby Club for hosting us, and all the other local businesses who have got behind us, including our fabulous event sponsors: WBW Solicitors, Torbay Clearance Services and Bays Brewery – plus Caterfoods for providing the pasties. All in all, it’s been a remarkable community-wide effort for a great cause!”

Rowcroft Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to around 2,500 patients and their families across South Devon every year. The charity spends around £11 million annually delivering its services, with only 24% of funding coming from government sources.

The remainder must be raised through donations, fundraising and community events such as the Big Tackle.

The hospice is already encouraging people to register interest for the Big Tackle 2027, as well as other upcoming events including its eight-mile Sleep Walk taking place on Saturday 20 June.