Ian Bell Welcomed As Patron At Acorns

Cricket star Ian Bell has been welcomed as Acorns' Patron by Acorns chairman David Butcher.

England and Warwickshire cricket star Ian Bell has been formally inducted as patron of Acorns Children's Hospice.

The Ashes hero was invited as patron in recognition of his continual support of the local children's hospice, including dedicating fundraising activities throughout his benefit year with Warwickshire CCC to the charity.

The newly appointed patron visited the hospice, along with his wife Chantal, to spend time with children, families, volunteers and staff as part of the induction.

Ian commented: "Acorns Hospice does a fantastic job in supporting hundreds of children and their families across the Midlands, and I feel very privileged to have been made patron. I'm confident that the funds raised from my benefit year will make a big difference in helping the great work that this charity is able to do in the future."

David Butcher, chairman of Acorns, formally welcomed the new patron: "Ian has been a long term supporter of Acorns for over ten years so it was fitting to make him a patron.

"His help in raising awareness of his local children's hospice and fundraising with both the Coventry support group and as part of his benefit year has been invaluable. We very much look forward to working with him and Chantal more closely in the future."

The award is the latest achievement for Ian Bell as he has recently also picked up an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Coventry University in recognition of his contribution to sport and charity.

Acorns currently cares for over 600 children who have life limiting or life threatening conditions and 800 families, including those that are bereaved, across our three hospices around the Midlands.

The three hospices across the heart of England cost £7,500 per day to run and the charity is mainly reliant on donations from the general public. For more information about Acorns and any fundraising ideas, visit http://www.acorns.org.uk.