A WAVE of colourful ribbons blowing gently against the backdrop of a beautiful river was the perfect setting for North Devon Hospice’s first memorial event in Bude on Sunday, March 17.

‘Where the wind blows’ gave an opportunity for people to gather at The Weir and remember loved ones no longer with us.

A community choir sang and poetry was read out as around 50 people stood alongside ribboned bamboos holding messages from loved ones.

Amy Higgins from Bude who attended the event said: “My husband George was cared for by the hospice for five to six weeks at the end of his life. I was struggling to look after him at night so it was great that the hospice was there. The care was all so good in the Bedded Unit and they made George so comfortable and even had him laughing at the end. He was such a happy man and the nurses were amazing.”

Gill Smith who lives in Bude also attended Where the wind blows with her family.

She said: “My husband died just a year ago. My two grandchildren Ashton and Mia wanted to do something to remember their grandad and when we were contacted by the hospice about this event, we really wanted to come along and say something to Grampy.”

She added: “It’s brilliant that the hospice is here for people in this area. The location we live in can make thing difficult when you’re facing an illness like Bill had. It’s fantastic to know that there is always someone at the hospice on the phone should I ever need to talk things through. People say such wonderful things about The Long House hospice outreach centre in Holsworthy, it’s fantastic that it’s here.”

Hemmings Coaches offered a bus for people travelling from the Holsworthy area and The Weir Bistro in Marhamchurch provided teas and scones for everyone who attended.

North Devon Hospice are planning to repeat the event again next spring in Bude, with further memorial events planned later in the year across North Devon.

If someone, or a loved one, is facing a life limiting illness, or for those facing bereavement who would like to talk to someone, contact North Devon Hospice’s supportive care team on 01271 344248 or visit northdevonhospice.org.uk for more information.