WHEN her mother died of bowel cancer, Diane Hobbs was determined to give something back to the hospice that looked after her so well.

Sheila Evans, who was 66 when she died, was cared for by St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester during the last two weeks of her life.

To help St Richard’s carry on its work for patients with terminal illnesses and their families, Mrs Hobbs decided to organise an equestrian day at Priors Court stables, Callow End, near Worcester.

Stable owner Claire Marston, whose mother-in-law Jill Marston died shortly before she was due to be admitted to the hospice, will help host the event on Sunday.

Attractions will include a pony Grand National, horse jumping displays, pony rides, talks on how to care for horses and more.

Mrs Hobbs said: “We wanted to give something back to St Richard’s. My mum had bowel cancer and was very poorly. St Richard’s was our lifeline. The care was absolutely wonderful. We were allowed to visit as much as we wanted and my mum was at ease throughout her stay.”

A memorial cup named after Mrs Evans and Mrs Marston will be presented at the open day.

Mrs Hobbs said: “We hope lots of people will come along and support the family event. Lots of the owners and riders from the yard will be putting on the show. It should be a fun day out.”

For tickets to the day, which takes place between 11am and 3pm, call St Richard’s Hospice on 01905 763963 or Claire Marston on 07734 569118.