Behind the scenes of ‘A Slice of History’

My connections with St Ann’s

“I was born in Bowdon, Cheshire in 1959 and have lived in the North West of England all my life. I have painted, crafted and designed since childhood. After many years in health and education, while working parallel in my art career, I feel blessed to now be a full-time selling artist for the Private, Commercial and Public sectors throughout the country.

“My connections with St. Ann’s Hospice are varied. I remember my lovely dad feeling so proud and privileged to be a volunteer driver at Heald Green for many years, assisting patients.

“Then, when my dad was in hospital, we tried in vain to transfer him to St Ann’s but he was too weak to travel and sadly passed away before he had the chance to go. My mum gave me his volunteer driver ID badge which I treasure.”

“Before I knew him, my husband lived right opposite the Hospice in Heald Green and in 1971, he and his two brothers sat on their garage roof, watching history before their very eyes as HRH The Queen Mother attended the opening ceremony.

“Being in a pandemic, I knew that essential funds would be challenged for all charities. It seemed poignant that I should paint a large portrait of Florence Nightingale; the visionary nurse who was instrumental in improving care for others. I pledged to donate £500.00 to St Ann’s upon its sale; it did sell and touchingly now resides in Lea, Derbyshire, where Florence grew up.”

Bringing it to life

“On every level, I knew my cake would need to pass risk assessment regulations as it would be exhibited in a public building with a viewing audience, so I was very mindful at getting all these hurdles approved. It was important to construct a framework that was lightweight, yet strong enough to support the hundreds of metal forget-me-nots that would be displayed on it. It also needed to be easily transportable, so I made the cake in wedge-shaped sections which would be easy to assemble at The Trafford Centre.

“Our kitchen, utility room, garage and garden has been turned into one busy workshop. I painted the exposed slices of the cake in my studio to look like sponge and jam and then I put ‘St Ann’s 50th Birthday’ on to show people what we’re celebrating.

“There’s a candle in the centre of the cake which is linked to an electronic collection box so that when money is donated into it, the candle’s flame will light up. I’m hoping that this will entice a bit of fun and encourage more donations.”