Former BBC Midlands Today presenter Kay Alexander launches Acorns appeal

Kay has launched the Acorns Children’s Hospice Christmas appeal, a campaign which aims to raise £70,000 towards the nearly £10 million the charity needs to raise each year to continue providing its vital services across the West Midlands.

The appeal features a film from the point of view of 10-year-old Tilly Barker from Malvern, whose brother Henry died of a rare genetic condition at Acorns hospice based in Worcester when he was just five weeks old.

The film highlights how in the last few hours of Henry’s life, Acorns helped Tilly and her family create lasting positive memories at an unimaginable time and continues to provide sibling support to Tilly and support for her mum Kelly.

Kay, who has recently taken on the official role of Acorns President, said: “Acorns is an extraordinary charity and one which is very close to my heart. This appeal is vital to help Acorns continue providing its care and we are so grateful to Tilly and Kelly for bravely telling their story.

“I hope it will inspire people to donate and help Acorns care for more children and families like Tilly’s, this Christmas and beyond.”

Kay has a long-standing association with Acorns and launched the charity’s very first fundraising appeal over 30 years ago. 

Commenting on her appointment as Acorns President, Kay said: “I was stunned when the charity’s chief executive Toby Porter approached me with the offer and I am extremely proud and honoured to take on this role at Acorns.

“I will do my level best to help promote this wonderful organisation as it approaches its 30th anniversary next year. What Acorns does for children and families across the West Midlands is tremendous and long may it continue.”

Established in the 1988, over the past year Acorns has cared for more than 1,090 families, including those who are bereaved.

To watch Tilly’s story and donate to the Acorns Christmas Appeal, please visit

www.acorns.org.uk/christmas