FEEDBACK from patients and family, innovative fundraising and important research projects have led to St Margaret’s being named hospice of the year in the Charity Today Awards 2018.

St Margaret’s Hospice, in Taunton and Yeovil, was one of two finalists shortlisted by the judges, alongside Martin House Children’s Hospice in Yorkshire. The winner was decided by a public vote on Twitter.

Chairman Jennifer Board and chief executive Ann Lee were presented with the trophy by Somerset peer Lord Strasburger, who hosted a lunch at the House of Lords for supporters of St Margaret’s Hospice.

Ann said: “This award is a real tribute to the fantastic efforts of all our staff and volunteers, who work so hard every day to deliver high quality, compassionate care to local patients and their families.

“We’re so grateful to everyone in Somerset who voted for us, and it’s been wonderful to receive so many lovely comments from people congratulating our teams on this well-deserved national recognition.”

St Margaret’s Hospice cared for 3,800 people affected by life-limiting illnesses last year, both in the community across Somerset and at its in-patient units in Taunton and Yeovil.