Hospice founder’s portrait unveiled

It was painted by 17-year-old artist Maia-Rose Cahill of Luton’s Canon Lane who wanted to say a very personal thank you for the caring way staff looked after her beloved Aunt Catherine, who sadly died two days after Christmas.

Maia-Rose, a Stopsley hospice shop volunteer, said: “The nurses go above and beyond, nothing is too much trouble for them – they even helped friends bring a bagpipe player and huge Christmas tree to my auntie’s room, as well as tea from Luton Hoo.

“Keech means the world to me and I have such a strong connection with the charity. I really wanted to give something back to the place that has helped so many families like mine.”

Dr White, who attended the ceremony with his wife Iris, said: “It’s such a great honour to have my portrait painted and hung in the hospice which has come a phenomenally long way from the early old farm house to the amazing charity it is today – and I am incredibly proud to be part of it.”