THE former High Sheriff of Dorset has become the latest patron of Poole's Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.

Philip Warr, who lives in Wimborne, met the charity's chief executive, Clare Gallie, last spring, when he agreed to support the hospice charity as one of his official High Sheriff partners.

Over the past year mutual respect between the two has strengthened, with Mr Warr becoming a staunch supporter of Lewis-Manning's new services and its move to more centralised Poole premises.

Clare said: “As our relationship strengthened, Philip became a strong supporter, one well placed to help us with his extensive Dorset connections and to offer excellent advice.

"On completion of his year as the High Sheriff of Dorset we were delighted when he agreed to become a patron and continue his support to the charity into the future."

From its new headquarters at Longfleet Road, Poole, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care helps residents of Poole, Purbeck and East Dorset with life limiting illnesses.

Its aim is to increase physical and social well-being, reduce isolation and loneliness, support people to stay in their homes longer, and alleviate the huge pressures on family and carers.

Clare said: “During the past year, Philip has made introductions to key people in the county, as well as offering help, advice, and support, especially with the move to Longfleet Road, our new ‘closer to home’ services, and expansion of services across Purbeck.

“He hosted an event at our former hospice premises in his role as High Sheriff, which was sponsored by Barclays Wealth Management and has continued to make introductions to raise both funds and awareness for the work our charity carries out. This has allowed us to help more local patients, attracting new and much needed volunteers and ambassadors, as well as inspiring new fundraising initiatives.”

Meanwhile, Philip said: “I am honoured and delighted to accept this patronage because I very much enjoy working with Clare and the team, all of whom are highly motivated to help the people of Dorset.

"I have seen and experienced first-hand the energy, drive, tenacity, dynamism and care of all involved in this wonderful charity, which is far too rare.”