Sir Cliff Richard surprised staff and patients with a visit to Thames Hospice.

The music legend spent time meeting patients, staff, and volunteers, sharing stories and offering words of comfort.

The visit was organised by the hospice's ambassador, Sunita Arora, a close friend of Sir Cliff and an executive director of The Arora Group.


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The Arora family has supported the hospice since 2021, raising substantial funds for the charity.

Jane Symmons, director of fundraising at the hospice, said: "We are incredibly thankful to Sir Cliff Richard for taking the time to visit us.

"His kindness and genuine care for our patients, families, and staff have left a lasting impression.

"We also extend our thanks to Sunita Arora for her ongoing support and for making this wonderful day possible."

She added: "Thames Hospice provides vital care and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

"Visits like this are a meaningful reminder of ensuring patients receive not only medical care, but also emotional support during their time at the hospice."

(Left to right) Sunita Arora, Sir Cliff Richard, Jane Symmons, and Steph Peters(Left to right) Sunita Arora, Sir Cliff Richard, Jane Symmons, and Steph Peters (Image: Thames Hospice)

Sir Cliff also donated one of his jackets to help raise funds for the hospice.

The jacket, signed by the singer, is a piece from his personal collection and will be auctioned in upcoming fundraising efforts.

Further details about how supporters can get involved in the fundraiser and bid for the item will be announced soon.

Sir Cliff Richard said: "It was my pleasure to visit Thames Hospice and meet all the lovely staff and volunteers who work so hard to provide amazing care.

"Meeting some of their patients reminded me how important hospice care is.

"I hope they can raise a lot from my jacket, which is a favourite of mine. I watched Andy Murray win Wimbledon while wearing it!"

The hospice has been providing specialist palliative and end-of-life care for people with life-limiting conditions, aged 16 years and over, since 1987.

The hospice employs more than 330 staff and over 940 volunteers, who provided care to 2,938 people in 2023.

The hospice offers a range of supportive outpatient activities and wellbeing therapies within the Paul Bevan Wellbeing Centre, including counselling and bereavement support, complementary therapies, physiotherapy, and lymphoedema services.