‘Shindig & Shenanigans’ took place in Café 177 on the evening of Saint Patrick’s Day, 17 March and included live music from Skyran, who played a special set of Irish themed songs, a quiz, raffle and other fun fundraising activities.

Phil Holbrook founded Team Sally in 2014 in tribute to his wife Sally, who tragically died in a car crash which also left Phil with life threatening injuries in 2012. Following this, as part of Phil’s recovery process, he returned to his lifelong passion of running with the help and support of many of his friends who collectively became known as Team Sally. The team have taken part in five Great North Runs in aid of Alice House and have ventured into other fundraising events including music nights and themed evenings.

Phil said “It’s always a privilege to raise much needed cash for Alice House Hospice in Sally’s name, and to do so in a fun way is something that #TeamSally like to do. Indeed, we are already planning events for 2020! So keep a look out and get involved if you feel that you can.  Without the help, support and guidance of Greg Hildreth from Alice House, as well as other partner organisations and people, this would not be possible so many thanks to all people who make this happen.”

Greg added “Phil and Team Sally are such a huge support to the services we provide to patients and their families. Phil and Sally were historically supporters of local hospice care and it is wonderful that Phil has continued this in Sally’s name and as a tribute to her. All of the people involved in Team Sally do a brilliant job and it is great to work with them throughout the year. The St. Patrick’s Day event was a great night and it was lovely to meet so many great and generous people.”

Team Sally are also taking part in this year’s Great North Run in support of Alice House.