The CEO of a hospice in south Cumbria has bid farewell to her team after over a decade in charge.

Val Stangoe had her last day at St Mary's Hospice on Thursday, October 3, which brought an end to an 11-year stewardship.

Trustees and staff, both past and present, came together at the hospice's Orangery Cafe to wish her well in her next endeavour.

Read more: Janey Godley prompts hospice conversation for Ulverston CEO | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)

A spokesperson from St Mary's said: "Val's leadership has seen us grow and prosper.

"In 2024 we're offering more services, to more people, across more of our community in Furness and South Lakes than at any point in our history.

"We're in a stable financial position and have overcome challenges like the temporary closure of our IPU beds in 2019, and the pandemic that followed in 2020."

Val is hoping to further pursue her passion for artVal is hoping to further pursue her passion for art (Image: St Mary's Hospice)

When Val joined in 2013, the annual income of the hospice stood at £2.7million, but has now grown to £6.1million.

She announced her decision to leave back in January, but has remained with the charity for the majority of 2024 to ensure the transfer of power runs as smoothly as possible.

"I’m leaving behind a fantastic organisation, which it has been my great privilege to lead," Val said.

"We have such a wonderful team of hard-working, dedicated professionals, and we’re supported so brilliantly by our local community."

Catherine Burn, the new CEOCatherine Burn, the new CEO (Image: St Mary's Hospice)

It was revealed in August that Catherine Burn will be taking over the role, joining from Carlisle Mencap - a social care provider - where she has been the chief executive officer since 2021.

She commented: "“I want to thank Val for her warm welcome, and for leaving St Mary’s in such good shape.

“I am honoured that I have been chosen to serve the Ulverston, Furness and South Lakes communities and I look forward to what the future holds.”