Hospice 'greatest institution', says Earl Spencer

Earl Spencer has paid tribute to a hospice of which he is patron, in its 50th anniversary year.

Cynthia Spencer Hospice, named after his grandmother and based in Northampton, opened in 1976 and provides inpatient care, and outpatient and wellbeing services.

The earl, who has been its patron since 1989, described it as "one of the greatest institutions in Northamptonshire".

The hospice was originally opened by Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Earl Spencer said the family and local people considered it a wonderful tribute to his grandmother and "her life of philanthropy and charitable works".

Fifty years ago, Cynthia Spencer Hospice was considered one of the first modern hospices in the country.

The 7th Earl Spencer agreed to be patron of its committee, and Cynthia Spencer House (as it was then called) was named after his late wife, Lady Cynthia Spencer.

A day unit was later added and opened by Diana, Princess of Wales, on the 29 March 1985.

After raising about £10m, a new hospice building was opened in 2005.

Reflecting on its history, Earl Spencer said: "I remember the first day when Cynthia Spencer was inaugurated with the Queen Mother, and I went along as an 11 or 12-year-old boy.

"The Queen Mother arrived by helicopter at Althorp (the family home) and it was a very big celebration of my grandmother's life.

"She always did so much for the community that her name was commemorated with the hospice in the town of Northampton. That's always been something we've been very proud of," he added.

The hospice said it was "honoured" to be celebrating its 50th year and was continuing to raise funds.

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