Launch of the £3.5m Al Fayed Building at Francis House Children’s Hospice

Jo Scott-Aspray · 7 May 2014

Kirsty Club Patron

This was an extremely special day yesterday (6th May 2014) when Mr Mohammed Al Fayed and his daughter, Camilla visited Francis House Hospice, Didsbury to launch the amazing new £3.5m extension. Sue Johnston and Susie Mathis, patrons of the Kirsty Club charity, Phil Taylor, The Kirsty Club and Corrie star Sally Dynevor also attended along with many supporters and friends.

Mr Al Fayed said it will be a place of hope and comfort for sick children. The former Harrods owner, his daughter Camilla had a tour of the new seven-bedroom complex along with many supporters.

The Al Fayed Charitable Foundation (ACF), set up in 1987, has long supported Francis House and to show their gratitude, the centre named the new wing The Al Fayed Building. The extra space, which includes a music and cinema room, lounge and kitchen, will be for visitors aged 13 and upwards, allowing them more freedom and independence. Mr Al Fayed said: “I think it is fantastic to be able to give hope to children who are unwell and to give them a place where they can feel normal. It is tremendous. “I have a lot of respect for the staff, the job they are doing is unbelievable. This place should be used an example around the country and the government should learn from it.”

Mr Al Fayed added: “When we first met she (Kirsty) had been given a short time to live and now in her 18th year we are astonished by her courage and resilience. She’s an inspiration and she’s also become a good friend.”

Francis House opened in 1991 and currently supports more than 240 children with terminal or life-limiting illnesses.