Salisbury Hospicecare Trust

It was with very great sadness that we learned of the death of Derrick Alford who died suddenly on News Year Eve.

Derrick, supported by his wife Vida, was a key figure in the founding of Salisbury Hospice. In 1981, as Mayor of Salisbury, he led the first major appeal which raised £26,000 and funded two palliative care community nurses and a social worker. Working tirelessly alongside chair Dr Peter Gillam, his undivided support continued as trustee and vice chair of Salisbury Hospicecare Trust for nearly 20 years, contributing to the building of the 10-bed inpatient unit and the development of community, outpatient and day services, which today support over 2,000 people every year.

“Derrick’s outstanding support over the last 30 years can be seen clearly now in the level of care and support we are able to provide to the local community. Staff and trustees both past and present would like to share their condolences with Derrick’s family, in particular his wife Vida, in mourning the loss of a very special man. “

Sara Morley, Chief Executive Office, Salisbury Hospicecare Trust