2024 has been a busy and successful year for the amazing Sobell House hospice in Oxford, who provide compassionate palliative care and support for individuals with life-limiting conditions and their families in Oxfordshire
With a variety of fundraising activities and community support, the charity has rounded off the year with a host of successful events, including festive displays and auctions.
Here are some of the highlights from December, along with exciting events to look forward to in 2025.
December 2024 Highlights
- Kennington Christmas Lights raised nearly £1,000: Martin Claridge’s stunning Christmas lights display raised £915.20 for Sobell House, with Martin personally delivering the proceeds.
- Lights of Love at St Edwards School: The annual Lights of Love service raised over £27,000 for Sobell House, with performances from the Military Wives Choir and Harmony Inspires. This event is vital for both remembrance and fundraising.
- Christmas Appeal raised £25,000: The generosity of local supporters ensured Sobell House’s continued success during the Christmas season.
- The Great Brook Run in Chadlington: On 28 December, 242 runners took part in this muddy and fun event, raising approximately £3,500 for Sobell House, Homeless Oxfordshire, and Diabetes UK.
- Mini Oxen Auction raised over £5,000: The mini herd of specially painted oxen raised a total of £5,376. Highlights include Yarnsey’s Tiny Tone, It All Fits Together, and Floral Flourish selling for impressive amounts.
- Kindness in the Community: The Wickes Community Foundation gifted Sobell House a faux Christmas tree and £200 worth of items, including a bench for lymphoedema patients to use while waiting at the outpatients’ entrance. This thoughtful gesture will offer much-needed comfort to patients.
Upcoming Events in 2025
Winter Walk 2025
- Date: Sunday 2 March 2024
- Location: Blenheim Palace
- Details: This year, walkers can choose between a 2.5-mile or 4.8-mile route. The event includes hot drinks, delicious food, and medals for all participants. Dogs are welcome, and under-5s go free.
- Get your tickets here
Looking for Alice – Permanent Home at Westgate Oxford
- Date: Monday 27 January 2024, 11am
- Details: The ‘Looking for Alice’ ox, painted by Caroline Ritson, will be unveiled on the roof terrace of Westgate Oxford. This ox was bought by the Lewis Carroll Society and gifted to Westgate to remain in public view.
- Join us for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and enjoy light refreshments.
24-Hour Row Challenge
- Date: Saturday 22 February 2024
- Location: Body Training Studio Gym, Wallingford
- Details: Pete and Steve Ashman will attempt a 24-hour indoor row in memory of their father, aiming to raise £12,000 for Sobell House. The challenge will cover a distance of 250km, the length from Blenheim Palace to Exmoor.
Oxford Half Marathon 2025
- Details: Team Sobell had over 200 runners in 2024, raising an impressive £102,000. The event will return in October 2025, and Sobell House is already preparing for the next team.
- Sign up here
Goring Gap Run & Walk 2025
- Details: The new event offers multiple running options, including a half and full marathon, as well as an ultra-marathon, set in a beautiful location.
Blenheim 7k Fun Run
- Date: Sunday 18 May 2024
- Details: This family-friendly event includes a 7k run, a run with your dog, a 4-mile course suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and a 1-mile race for younger athletes.
- Find out more
Bike Oxford
- Date: Sunday 22 June 2024
- Details: There will be four different cycling routes to cater to all abilities, ranging from 13 miles to 78 miles.
- Register for Bike Oxford
Gratitude for the Support
Sobell House would like to thank the community for their ongoing support throughout 2024. The charity’s success relies on the generosity and involvement of the local community, which enables Sobell House to continue providing essential care to those in need.
Contact Information:
Visit the Sobell House website for updates and to get involved:
https://www.sobellhouse.org
Who are Sobell House?
Sobell House is a hospice and charitable organisation based in Oxford, UK, that provides specialist care and support to individuals with life-limiting conditions. The charity is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those facing serious illness, offering both inpatient and at-home care. Sobell House also supports the families and carers of those with serious conditions, providing them with emotional and practical assistance.
The hospice offers a range of services, including pain management, symptom control, and palliative care, ensuring that patients experience dignity and comfort during their final stages of life. In addition to its medical care, Sobell House relies heavily on donations and community fundraising to continue its essential work, hosting a variety of fundraising events throughout the year.
Sobell House is known for its compassionate, patient-centred approach, making it a vital resource for those in the Oxford area who need end-of-life care and emotional support.
