Gelderwood Park Garden Party

Gelderwood Park Garden Party

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Gelderwood Park in Ashworth Valley was the beautiful setting on a gorgeous day for a summer charity garden party held to raise money for the Myasthenia Gravis Association and Springhill Hospice.

Organisers, Peter, Joyce and Paul Chadwick were hosting the event for the second year looking to raise money to help both charities.

Asked why he went to so much time and trouble to hold what was a superb garden party, Peter Chadwick said: “We have long supported Springhill Hospice but after meeting MP Jim Dobbin’s grandchildren, who suffer from Myasthenia Gravis, we wanted to do as much as we could to help.”

Myasthenia Gravis is a muscle weakness illness, known as the ‘ragdoll illness’ – it is a congenital disease but it is not well known or understood, even by those in the medical profession. Mr Dobbin explained he has been negotiating with government health ministers to fund training for doctors and nurses. He said: “There are a few specialists in the country but not enough.”

Mr Dobbin added: “I want to thank the Chadwick family for sponsoring this event for the second time. I am very grateful.”

The proceeds of the day, around £2000, are being shared with Springhill Hospice and trustee Ken davies also wanted to record his thanks to the Chadwick family, he said: “Once again a big thank you to Peter, Joyce and Paul for putting on this excellent event. It is good to see it so well attended and the weather has helped being as lovely as it is.

“I would like to thank all those attending for their support, it is very much appreciated.”

Deputy Mayor Zulf Ali, deputising as Mayor Keith Swift had a previous engagement, said: “I am delighted to have been invited. It is so good to see so many people helping others who are in need, it is a wonderful example and I am full of admiration for the volunteers who support both charities.”

Musical entertainment was provided by Rochdale Youth Wind Band under the direction of Laura Clark.

There was even a fly past by the red arrows! Apparently on their way to an event in Blackpool.