Tireless fundraiser Ali Hunt retires from North Devon Hospice after 25 years

One of the most well-known and influential faces in North Devon’s charity sector has hung up her collecting bucket after an incredible 25 years of service to North Devon Hospice.

Ali Hunt has retired after a quarter century of heading up the charity’s fundraising operations and ensuring that thousands of local people received care in their hour of need, a contribution which hospice chief executive called ‘life-changing’.

Anyone who has ever attended a North Devon Hospice event, picked up a local newspaper or read stories about the hospice online will instantly recognise Ali, who was always tireless in her efforts and seemed able to find extra hours in every day to go the extra mile.

Above: Ali Hunt at the Colour Me Happy fundraising event she helped create to raise money for the hospice. Credit: ND Hospice

Stephen said: “It is a fact that Ali Hunt has had a profound impact on the lives of literally thousands of local people.

“She has been a driving force behind hospice care in North Devon for 25 years, making sure that funds are raised to provide care when it is needed most.

“Anyone who has met Ali will instantly realise how much she cares about the patients and families supported by North Devon Hospice. This compassion and empathy shines through instantly.

“Her energy is unmatched and we are so lucky to have had her as a figure head for local hospice care for 25 years.”

Over the years Ali has been at the heart of a host of innovative fundraising events, many if which have been recognised on a national level.

Stephan added: “From the magical Dreamwalk experience, to the largest ladies midnight walk in the country. From the award-winning National Sheep Dog Trials at Castle Hill, to running the Mission:Unbreakable commando challenge. Ali has firmly placed North Devon Hospice fundraising on the national map.”

Above: Never afraid to lead by example, Ali Hunt took on many challenges including this skydive during her time as fundraiser for North Devon Hospice. Credit: ND Hospice

Ali has helped the hospice provide more and more care each year, to help meet the ever-growing demand, as more people with a life-limiting illness rely on the charity in their darkest hour.

When she started, there was no Bedded Unit offering 24-hour care, no Hospice to Home service helping to keep people comfortable in their own homes and no Long House outreach centre in Holsworthy.

Above: Ali Hunt shows HRH Princess Anne around the new Bedded Unit at North Devon Hospice during its official opening. Credit: ND Hospice

Reflecting on her time at the hospice, Ali said: “When I started 25 years ago, I had no real idea what would unfold! But supporting our community has been a real dream job.

“Having a positive impact on patients and families has always been my main motivator throughout the last 25 years. After all, it was my mum - who was a hospice patient herself - that brought home the application form for the job!

“I have absolutely loved meeting so many people and having the opportunity to sincerely and genuinely thank them for supporting our hospice.

“Organising events is always challenging, but I have always looked for the next mountain to climb. I have thrived under pressure and there is nothing I would not have done to raise as much as we can for patients and their families – which, by the way, has even involved me walking over hot coals and broken glass!”

Above: Ali Hunt with a hospice Bedded Unit patient who loved horses and whose fondest wish was made possible when she was introduced to a friendly equine visitor to the hospice. Credit: ND Hospice

Looking ahead, Ali urged local people to continue to support their hospice through tough economic times.

She said: “My message to our North Devon community is to never take anything for granted, including our hospice. Life can be precarious, and our plans shattered at any time. But thanks to the support and care our North Devon Hospices provides, we will be there for you.

“I hope the wonderful, heart-warming and humbling support that we have received over so many years continues in the future, as I cannot imagine this North Devon community without our hospice.

“So whether it’s supporting our charity shops, joining our lottery, taking part in an event, making a donation, or leaving us a gift for the future in your will, there are lots of ways that together we can continue to provide inspiring care when it matters most.”

Above: Never afraid to enlist any help she could, Ali Hunt is pictured with stars with Paddy McGuinness and Rory McGrath to promote sheepdog trials supporting North Devon Hospice. Credit: ND Hospice