Special thank you to two "true hospice ambassadors"

We were honoured to help say thank you and farewell to Keith and Judy Clifton – two very special supporters who have truly become part of our hospice heart.

The couple, who run Cliftons Dance Academy, have relocated to be closer to family, but not before an emotional event celebrating their incredible contribution to the area.

Their support of St Andrew's Hospice has spanned more than two decades, and has seen the Cliftons give "their time, their energy and their hearts" to raise over £16,500.

Hospice Head of Fundraising Emily Aitken attended the event at Grimsby Town Hall to say a “very special thank you” to the couple, and present them with a memento in recognition of their support.

She said: “Keith and Judy are not just supporters, not just fundraisers, but true ambassadors for everything St Andrew’s Hospice stands for.

“The amount they’ve raised is, on its own, an incredible achievement. But, as we all know, their impact goes far beyond the numbers. They’ve helped shine a light on what St Andrew’s really is. Because for many people, the word ‘hospice’ can be a difficult one.

“But, thanks to Keith and Judy, so many in our community now see what we see every day – that St Andrew’s is a place full of life, care, joy, and dignity.”

The Cliftons, along with daughter and dance professional Joanne, have supported events like Danceathon, taken part in our very own Strictly, performed for our wellbeing groups and read to young patients at our children’s hospice.

“They have given their time, their energy and their hearts,” Emily added. “They’ve brought smiles, lifted spirits, and created memories for so many people here — patients, families, staff, volunteers, and the wider community. And they’ve done it all with warmth, generosity, and, of course, a little bit of sparkle.

“So, on behalf of everyone at St Andrew’s — thank you, Keith and Judy. Thank you for your passion, your kindness, your dancing shoes, and your unwavering support.”

Speaking on the night, Keith and Judy said the hospice has “been in our hearts for a very long time”.

They added: “We came along to entertain a group of patients, and it just went to our hearts. We knew we had to support the fine job done by everyone there.

“We’ve always supported St Andrew’s Hospice and have been very pleased to do so. We didn’t know how much we had raised; it’s a wonderful amount, but we have tried to also offer our services to come along and support however we can.

“We’ve enjoyed our relationship with St Andrew’s Hospice, and long may it be so wonderful.”