Local celebrity Sue Devaney announced as new patron of Springhill Hospice

Sue Devaney

Rochdale’s very own soap star, singer and mental health activist Sue Devaney has become a patron of Springhill Hospice.

The team at Springhill cared for Sue’s mum 20 years ago but the impact it had on them both left a lasting effect. Sue’s mum spent 9 weeks in the Inpatient Unit at Springhill before spending her final hours at home with her loved ones, where she wanted to be.

Sue’s memories of that time were that her mum was so well cared for, that in spite of her advancing condition, her appetite was strong enough on her final day to enjoy her favourite meal of pudding, chips and peas, something Sue had not thought possible.

Sue, who is best known to many as Debbie Webster in Coronation Street, or Liz Harker in Casualty, said it’s an honour to become a patron at the Rochdale charity.

She said: “It is such an honour and a privilege to be a patron of the fabulous Springhill Hospice. 

“I spent a lot of time in this amazingly peaceful environment when my mum was being cared for. 

“The staff and carers and all the volunteers go above and beyond and give the best end-of-life care I have ever witnessed. Everybody should have the right to live and die with dignity and respect”

This week patients, staff and volunteers of Springhill Hospice were thrilled to meet Sue as she visited the Inpatient Unit and her infectious smile and marvellous hugs brought a wonderful glow to the ward.

Springhill CEO Sam Wells said “It’s a real joy to have someone like Sue on board. She has a genuine, warm personality and honest desire to make the world a better place.

"Her passion and charisma will be a real asset to Springhill and we are very lucky to have her support and thank her for becoming part of Team Springhill.”