Prince pays tribute to Norfolk Hope08 team

2008: The Prince of Wales has paid tribute to Hope08 participants, including a group from Norfolk, at a royal reception at Clarence House, and thanked them for their one million hours of kindness.

 

Gina Luckwell, Sue Riley, Julia Barker and Richard Snow (pictured right) , representing Hope08 in North Walsham, attended the reception on June 12 along with 80 others, at which His Royal Highness, Prince Charles (pictured below with Susan and Richard)  paid tribute to Hope08 - and those involved - for their “devotion and ability to motivate people”.

 

He said: “I am fascinated to hear about how Hope08 started and what a marvellous response it has received all over this country.

 

“It's so encouraging to hear how it seems to have struck a chord. It's wonderful to witness the fact that so many denominations are working together and overcoming possible suspicion - you are helping to overcome all that, and display that kind of witness which is so incredibly valuable.”

 

All the delegates present are taking part in the Hope08 'hours of kindness' scheme - serving their communities in word and action.

 

The team of delegates from North Walsham has been working with other organizations volunteering practical help starting at Easter with the National Blood Service promoting the act of giving blood, doubling the numbers of new donors from the town.

 

Other areas of work have been in the schools, residential homes for the elderly, and encouraging the FROG's (Fully Reliant On God) children's group as they get involved with North Walsham in Bloom as part of the Hope08’s million hours of kindness challenge.

 

Gina, Sue, Julia and Richard, said, it was a great encouragement to know that the Prince of Wales took a genuine interest in all that we've been doing for Hope08.

 

The next high point of Hope08 activities is 'Hope Explored', a chance for churches to invite those they are serving to find out more about Christianity. Events planned so far include town-wide banquets, street parties and courses in churches throughout the UK.

 

North Walsham is planning to promote Fairtrade at harvest in the autumn, and activities sharing the 'Gift of Hope' at Christmas.