A CHRISTCHURCH hospice has reeled in the funds thanks to a donation from a local rotary club.

Resourceful Rotarian Robin Scott, president of Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary, made a rod for his own back when he delivered his club’s latest donation to the Macmillan Hospice in Christchurch.

Coronavirus restrictions prevented Robin from handing over the money, but that didn't stop him from devising his own delivery method by using a giant cheque and a fishing rod

Robin said: "In normal times we present our donations to the Macmillan Unit as a group with celebratory photographs and a party atmosphere.

"Unfortunately, get-togethers aren’t safe at the moment. But we are a resourceful bunch and thought we would make sure the money got here, where it is needed, safely – but with a hint of fun."

The rotary club has long supported Macmillan Caring Locally (MCL), the charity which supports the Macmillan Unit, which is based at Christchurch Hospital and provides palliative care and support for over 1600 people and their families every year.

The cheque was 'reeled in' to Neal Williams, Trust Secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally.

Neal said: "When the club said what they were planning we all had a good laugh. They are a fun and deeply generous group of people and we feel privileged to have had their backing over many years.

"Today’s donation perfectly sums up the strength of their devotion to the Mac Unit - as well as their great sense of humour. We would like to thank all the members for their outstanding support of our hospice."

Robin added: "The charity has been hit hard by the pandemic, including its Brick by Brick appeal which is fundraising to build a new more modern hospice building. So, it gives us great satisfaction to know we are making a healthy donation to the appeal at this time.

"Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary is now very much looking forward to restrictions lifting so we can come together, stage some great events and raise even more money for this wonderful charity."

Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary is based at Northwick House in Owls Road, Boscombe.