A VERY SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP
Bournemouth Gilbert & Sullivan Society visited the Macmillan Unit to celebrate a very special relationship between them and Macmillan Caring Locally (MCL).
In 1974, the Macmillan Unit was built and the independent charity Macmillan Caring Locally started to support it. Funding to provide nurses, family support, rehabilitation, chaplaincy teams and much more was needed. Soon, a bond was forged with Bournemouth G & S.
Having sung in Bournemouth Housing Association Homes at Christmas for several years, the singers were happy to perform for patients, staff and friends at the Macmillan Unit. Thereafter, the Society decided that all money raised by singing carols should go to Macmillan Caring Locally.
Over the years, the carolling season found enthusiastic singers at venues large and small, with audiences delighted to contribute to Macmillan Caring Locally. Every penny went towards enabling many projects in the unit to improve the environment and facilities for patients and their families.
In 2014, a Gala Concert of G & S was performed at Lighthouse, Poole in support of Macmillan Caring Locally. Professional principals, a chorus of nearly 100 and a 30-piece orchestra combined to bring wonderful music to a sellout audience. It also raised awareness of the Macmillan Unit and the work of the Charity.
That same year, Neal Williams of Macmillan Caring Locally expressed his appreciation that over £60,000 had been donated by Bournemouth G & S. Since then, many generous donations have taken the total to around £120,000. Very recently, Neal described the Society as being the longest serving supporter of the Charity.
Neil Winkley, a founder member seen in the photo under our care said “It matters to me greatly that I and others were able to initiate the giving of Christmas Carol monies to MCL from Christmas 1975 until now in 2025, totalling over £120,000.
Having been involved for 50 years and pleased to have made a substantial contribution, Bournemouth Gilbert & Sullivan Society is very proud of that accolade.
