Nelson’s Shantymen – the legendary group who invite audiences to set sail through Norfolk’s maritime history – joined forces with The White Horse pub in Brancaster Staithe for a special singalong in memory of one of their own, Peter Wadham. Together, they raised an impressive £7,493 in his name.
Before his death in December, Mr Wadham expressed his wish that funds raised by the group be donated to the hospital’s Cancer Care and Treatment Centre, a cause close to his heart. The shantymen arranged performances at his hospice, bringing comfort and music to residents during his final weeks of life.
Mr Wadham’s widow Karen, reminisced: “Peter wished he had found the Shantymen years ago and said he felt like he’d found his forever group. He was kind, generous and selfless and bore his illness with dignity and stoicism, still thinking of others even at the end.”
Nelson’s Shantymen group said: “For four wonderful years, Pete was one of us. In the Nelson’s Shantymen Family. We have countless, amazing memories of our time together, both on stage gigging and during our social outings. He wasn’t just a bandmate; he was truly like family to every one of us. Rest in peace, Wads. We will always keep the tide rolling for you.”
Dr Jamie Morton-Gittens, a Specialist Oncologist at the hospital, shared: “It was very kind of the fundraisers to think of us and to present us with such a fantastic amount that they raised. In the year I was involved in treating Peter, he often talked fondly of being a part of the Shantymen, and how important it was for him to perform with them as long as he could, even if it meant he had to sit down. He was very thoughtful, and I am not surprised that his generosity has continued even after his passing, with such a generous gift.”
In a final contribution to the group he loved, Mr Wadham recorded a solo shortly before he passed away due, ensuring he could still ‘sing’ with his fellow Shantymen at his own funeral.
Nelson’s Shantymen have been performing together for more than 15 years, united by a shared love of sea shanties and a commitment to supporting local causes. In the past year the group performed at 40 concerts and raised an impressive £15,000 for charities across the community.
The White Horse pub has also been a longstanding supporter of local cancer care, hosting annual concerts, quiz nights and raffles to raise vital funds. Over the past 10 years, these efforts have generated an incredible £46,000 for The QEH Cancer Care Unit.
If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or call 01553 613309.
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