Tea with boy band star in memory of much-loved salon owner

Janet's Hair Salon in Ledbury is hosting a fundraising coffee morning on 8 November to support St Michael’s Hospice, in memory of the salon’s much-loved former owner, Janet Jones. The event promises a warm community atmosphere and a special prize: a chance to have tea with boy band star Lee Brennan, offering attendees a memorable way to pay tribute while raising funds for a local charity.

Honouring Janet Jones through local action

Janet Jones was a well-known figure in Ledbury, remembered for her friendly manner and long-standing commitment to the local community. Rather than a private gesture, the decision to mark her memory with a public fundraiser reflects how many local residents want to channel their grief into positive support for others. St Michael’s Hospice, which provides end-of-life and palliative care across the area, is a natural beneficiary of such community-led initiatives.

By bringing people together, the coffee morning aims to create a space for remembrance and celebration. Events like this often help relatives and friends share stories, support one another and strengthen community ties — while raising vital funds for healthcare services that many local families rely on.

What to expect at the coffee morning

The event is expected to be traditional, friendly and suitable for all ages. Typical features at a fundraising coffee morning will include freshly brewed coffee and tea, homemade cakes and light refreshments, plus activities designed to boost donations such as raffles, small auctions and a prize draw. The headline prize — tea with Lee Brennan — adds extra excitement and is likely to attract fans as well as supporters of the hospice and salon community.

Organisers generally aim to make these occasions accessible and inclusive, encouraging people to drop in during the day rather than attend for a fixed time. That flexibility helps increase participation and makes it easier for people with busy schedules to contribute.

How you can take part and help

There are several simple ways to support a local fundraising coffee morning if you’re in or near Ledbury:

• Attend the coffee morning on 8 November — bring friends and family to increase the impact of your visit.
• Donate home-baked goods or small items for a raffle or tombola to help boost fundraising totals.
• Volunteer on the day to help serve refreshments, manage stalls or organise the prize draw.
• Spread the word on social media or within local groups to attract more visitors.
• Make a direct donation to St Michael’s Hospice if you cannot attend in person.

Small actions add up: a few dozen extra attendees, a healthy raffle, or several baked contributions can significantly increase the funds raised for hospice services.

If the tea with Lee Brennan is being offered as a raffle or prize draw, purchasing tickets early and encouraging raffle sales among friends and neighbours is a practical way to boost the chance of winning while supporting the cause.

Why St Michael’s Hospice benefits from community fundraisers

Hospices like St Michael’s provide essential care and support for patients and families at challenging times. While some funding may come from statutory sources, a large portion of hospice income often depends on charitable donations and community fundraising. Events organised by local businesses and community groups contribute directly to frontline services, bereavement support, and specialist nursing care.

Community-led events also raise awareness about hospice work, helping to build lasting relationships between residents and care providers. This connection can result in ongoing volunteer involvement, regular donations, and increased visibility for the hospice’s wider fundraising calendar.

Practical tips for attendees

• Check event times and any entry fees before you go — some fundraisers operate a suggested donation on arrival.
• Bring cash for raffles and small purchases; not all stalls accept cards.
• Label home-baked goods with ingredients to help those with allergies.
• Consider volunteering for a short shift if you can spare the time — organisers always welcome extra hands.

Whether you are coming for a chat, the cake or the chance to meet a celebrity guest, your presence helps maintain vital services in the community.

Takeaway

The coffee morning at Janet's Hair Salon on 8 November is more than a social event: it’s a community-led tribute to Janet Jones while raising funds for St Michael’s Hospice. With refreshments, stalls and a prize draw featuring tea with Lee Brennan, the occasion offers an uplifting way to remember a much-loved local figure and support essential care services. Simple actions — attending, donating, volunteering or spreading the word — can make a real difference.

Source: Hereford Times