A special ‘torch run’ involving Mountbatten staff was held as part of our 45th-anniversary celebrations.

Teams of staff from both Mountbatten Hampshire and Mountbatten Isle of Wight ran from one hospice to the other, via the Red Jet.

The runners passed each other at the Red Funnel ferry terminal in Southampton, before continuing their route back to their respective site.

Each team carried a ‘flame of kindness’, made by artist Lisa Traxler to mark the 45th anniversary.

The event was captured on TV by BBC South Today, which can be viewed below.

“The torch run gave us a wonderful opportunity to bring our hospices together to celebrate 45 years of kindness,” said Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten CEO.

“Mountbatten Hampshire and Mountbatten Isle of Wight have now been working in partnership for three years, though remain separate charities supported by the communities they serve.

“This anniversary gives us a chance to raise awareness of our work across both sides of the water.

“The demand for our services in both areas is rising and the support of our respective communities is vital to us.

“It was really special to see our staff come together to run and support the event.”

Mountbatten Hampshire opened as Countess Mountbatten Hospice in 1977 and was the local hospice for Southampton and the Isle of Wight until 1982, when Mountbatten Isle of Wight, then Earl Mountbatten Hospice, opened on the Island.

Other events are planned to mark the 45th anniversary, including an afternoon tea, also open to everyone, at Mountbatten on September 13.

BBC South Today footage