Barrow business gives up day's earnings to Ulverston hospice

The team at Ultimate Auto Locksmiths, based at Ashburner Way, gave all the money brought in on Sunday, September 22 to St Mary's Hospice of Ulverston.

The business is owned by Chris Ritchie, whose late father Mike has inspired this latest batch of charitable work.

Read more: Barrow business gives day's earnings to Ulverston charity | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)

Chris said: "When dad was in his last weeks of life, the hospice was fantastic.

"The care at home service allowed my dad to pass peacefully at home, which is what he wanted to do, that was the family's wishes, rather than dying at a hospital.

"The staff were unbelievably caring, they came in and stayed overnight to try and give my mum a rest, and stayed with my dad right through the night.

"They helped us to cope and to deal with the inevitable that we had no doubt was going to happen."

Read more: Barrow's Chris Ritchie Garage marks 35 years in the industry | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)

As well as giving up their earnings, Chris and the team also covered their own expenses like equipment and fuel, working for free the entire day.

Thanks to support from family, friends and customers, they have managed to raise £1,540 for St Mary's - and their efforts will not stop there.

Chris Ritchie has turned Ultimate Auto Locksmiths into a 'Compassionate Company' (Image: Submitted)

The first edition was designed to mark the date of Mike's death whilst a repeat event will take place on November 15 for what would have been his birthday.

The plan is for this to become an annual experience, keeping Mike's memory alive as well as supporting the organisation that proved to be so beneficial for their family.

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Chris' commitment to St Mary's has also extended to officially making Ultimate Auto Locksmiths a 'Compassionate Company', which means they will donate £35 to the hospice every month for 35 months.

A spokesperson from St Mary's added: "Chris, your dedication and compassion means the world to us all.

"Thank you for making such a huge difference in the community and what a wonderful thing to do in your dad's memory."