Hospice bosses have hailed a charity champion who has spearheaded an immensely successful 'Cakes to Go' home baking fundraiser.

Christine McGowan, 70, has coined in over more than £16,000 for St Vincent's Hospice, in Howwood, over the past seven years.

The Renfrew mum launched her home baking fundraiser after her beloved daughter Michelle received compassionate care at the hospice at the age of 30.

In the face of adversity, Christine turned her grief into a powerful force for good, motivated by a desire to give back to the charity that provided solace and support during a challenging time.

Over the years, she has cultivated a community of support that extends beyond her immediate circle, involving family, friends and neighbours. 

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Christine's annual 'Cakes to Go' event is held with meticulous planning and preparation throughout October and has now become a beloved tradition.

The array of tasty treats, such as carrot cakes, tablet and exquisite tray bakes, has made the event a sweet sensation eagerly anticipated by all.

Christine's efforts have played a pivotal role in enabling St Vincent's Hospice to continue providing meaningful, specialist care to patients and their families during their most challenging moments.

Emma Donald, community, corporate and event manager at St Vincent's Hospice, told The Gazette: "We are so grateful to have such amazing supporters like Christine. 

"I met Christine in person just a few weeks before her 'Cakes to Go' fundraiser at her home and had a lovely chat about how it all started. 

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"From a coffee morning that held its ground through the pandemic and came out the other side as ‘Cakes to Go’ as we now know it.

Emma said Christine and her family had come together to make the annual home baking fundraiser "a seamless and successful operation."

She added: "Christine doesn’t ask for anything in return and says that having the hospice care for Michelle was more than enough for her. 

"Christine has also recently joined the hospice as a reception volunteer and we are delighted to have her join the team. 

"She is the epitome of a compassionate and resilient soul and we can’t thank Christine, her community of supporters, and everyone who has contributed to the success of 'Cakes to Go' enough, the funds raised, help us to provide care to patients and families and ensure they have the best person-centered care possible."