LAUNCH OF THE GRIEF RELIEF APPEAL
22 April 2009, Savoy Place

Debbie Kerslake, Chief Executive of Cruse Bereavement Care launches the Grief Relief Appeal

Mayor of Richmond, Cllr Helen Lee-Parsons, with Dr Colin Murray-Parkes and the daugher and grand-daughter of Cruse founder, Margaret Torrie: Cherry Greveson (left) and Natascha Bowen (right).

William Radice reads the poem

An evening to remember for volunteers, staff and supporters

Volunteers, staff and supporters were brought together to celebrate the official launch of the Golden Jubilee Grief Relief Appeal, with a presentation from the Chair of Cruse, Nigel Tricker and an overview of the charity and its activities from its Chief Executive, Debbie Kerslake, which can be seen here.

There was also the reading by William Radice of a poem he has written specially for Cruse in its 50th year, called The Shoes, which can be read here and also printed out.

The guest list of supporters included Members of Parliament, the Mayor of Richmond - where Cruse was founded and has always had its head office - professionals and some members of the family of the late Margaret Torrie - her daughter, Cherry Greveson, and grand-daughter Natascha Bowen.

Sara Richards, who has edited "Voices of Cruse", a book to celebrate the work of the organisation over the past fifty years, was on hand to sign copies.

The book began as a history of Cruse Bereavement Care to mark the 50th anniversary but soon became the 'Voices' of some of those who have been bereaved, and those who have worked with them.

Through these reminiscences, the book describes how the charity that began through the determination of one woman, Margaret Torrie, to 'do something for widows' grew into one that is internationally recognised for its work with bereaved people.

It is a book to dip into for anyone who has suffered bereavement or who has 'walked alongside' a bereaved person.

The book, along with other Jubilee merchandise, is available here.