Downton Abbey star to back work of St Margaret's Hospice in Yeovil

DOWNTON Abbey actor Ed Speleers has pledged to support the work of the St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice in Yeovil.

The charity has announced that Ed, who plays valet Jimmy Kent in the popular TV drama series, will be backing Somerset Cancer Care, a division of St Margaret’s and one of the charity’s community-based services.

Now celebrating its 25-year anniversary, Somerset Cancer Care groups meet in five different locations across Somerset, welcoming anyone affected by cancer.

The actor has offered to run the London Marathon to help raise not only money, but also support and profile for this county –wide service.

PHOTO - TOP: Ed Speleers (front centre) at the Somerset Cancer Care support group in Yeovil with group attendees and supporters.

PHOTO - RIGHT: Actor Ed Speleers as Jimmy Kent in Downton Abbey.

This month, Ed took time out of his busy schedule to visit the charity’s Yeovil’s support group, following which he travelled to St Margaret’s Yeovil Hospice to meet staff and patients.

Ed said: “I am thrilled to be able to run for Somerset Cancer Care and I am really humbled by the great work that is being carried out at the support groups and the Hospice.

“I just can't believe how positive the patients and families are. I know they will really inspire me whilst I am running.”

Community clinical volunteer leader of St Margaret’s, Kathy Hughes, said: “We couldn’t be more delighted to receive this support from such a high profile actor.

“Ed has shown that he really cares about the work we do and clearly recognises the value of the service. We are so very grateful.”

Somerset Cancer Care is a St Margaret's service supported by Macmillan Cancer Support.

For more details on Somerset Cancer Care support groups and opening times, please visit http://www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/Patient+Care/somersetcancercare .

Tags:
News.