Doncaster’s St John’s Hospice has unveiled a new memory tree, made possible thanks to the generosity of a local benefactor who wished to create a lasting memorial at the hospice.
The bespoke memory tree, featuring 400 gold, silver and bronze leaves, has been created by sculptural artist Claudia Brown of Perspex Angel and installed at St John’s Hospice in Balby. The project was funded through a significant legacy left by Norman Duck, who passed away at the hospice aged 91 in December 2024.
Norman, who worked for many years as a joiner at Cusworth Hall, lived in Adwick with his wife Mary. When Mary died at St John’s Hospice in 2006, Norman was deeply grateful for the care she received. He generously donated £5,000 at the time and made the decision to leave a further legacy of £75,000 to the charity in his will.
When Norman became ill in 2024, he specifically asked to be cared for at St John’s Hospice and was there for three weeks. He was visited by half-cousins Dave and Andy Richardson, who helped to care for him in later life, and his close friends Michael and Janis Jackson.
Dave Richardson said:
“St John’s Hospice provided wonderful care for both Norman and Mary, and this legacy in his will was his way of saying thank you.
“When we read his will and learned of his wishes, we discussed them with the staff at St John’s and agreed that using some of the funds for the memory tree would be a fitting way to remember them both, while also helping to raise funds to support families for years to come.”
He added:
“We were invited to visit the hospice to see the tree when it was installed and we know that Norman and Mary would be pleased with its design and the lovely plaque that tells their story.”
Fundraising Manager Jenny Baynham added:
“We are extremely grateful to Norman for bequeathing such a significant sum of money in his will. We rely heavily on charitable donations and legacies to raise the £680,000 it costs each year to keep our services running.
“The memory tree will feature tribute leaves available for a donation of £120 each. These can be engraved with the name of a loved one and placed on the tree for two years. The first leaves have, of course, been especially dedicated to Norman and Mary.”
Published: January 05, 2026