Inside Salisbury: Proving Crime Does Pay

Salisbury Hospice Fundraiser raises staggering amount for charity

By Annette J Beveridge

WHOEVER said crime doesn’t pay did not anticipate the fun-filled charity event by Salisbury Hospice, which saw six law-breaking local business professionals being arrested.

The Jail & Bail fundraiser, which raised a considerable amount of money for charity, took place on Friday, June 13. The crimes? Some seriously silly, criminally funny acts in the workplace.

Following their arrest, each prisoner faced the formidable Judge Wendy Warwick White in a mock trial at the Guildhall. One by one they were announced by Town Crier Jef Hutchby before being led to their cells at Live Escape Rooms by Executioner Charlie Pitcher.

From over-the-top arrests to imaginative courtroom defences, the day was packed with humour, community spirit, and fantastic fundraising fun with a staggering £23k raised.

Corporate Fundraiser at Salisbury Hospice Charity, Louise Compton, said: “I’m absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible generosity we’ve seen. The amount raised is simply amazing, and it’s a real testament to the phenomenal support of our local businesses and their networks.

“Their dedication and enthusiasm mean so much to us at Salisbury Hospice Charity, and it’s heartening to see how deeply our cause resonates across the community. We couldn’t do what we do without them.” Funds raised will help Salisbury Hospice Charity continue delivering compassionate, specialist care to over 1,200 patients and their families across the community each year.”

Senior Manager at S&W, Anthony Rice, said; “I think everyone can reflect on what was a really fun team effort with a crazy amount raised for an incredible cause. The more I think about it, the more I think the idea itself is genius... it’s a laugh, a teambuilding exercise and a really good way of reaching out to a massive network raising awareness and funds, all rolled into one!”

The brave prisoners were:

• Christian Airey, Business Director at Wessex Care

• Andy North, President of Salisbury & District Chamber of Commerce

• Martin Rossiter, Partner at PKF Francis Clark

• Dave Hearn, Director of Sarum Properties

• Anthony Rice, Senior Manager at S&W

• Craig Haywood, Store Manager at Tesco Extra Salisbury

Salisbury Hospice extended thanks to Salisbury Guildhall, Claire and Charlie Pitcher of Live Escape Rooms, Salisbury, Wiltshire Police and PC Rachel Wood and her team who volunteered their time, and the fabulous Magistrate Wendy Warwick White.

Thanks to Nole Pizza, Reeve the Baker, and Tesco Extra Salisbury for generously donating food to keep prisoners and volunteers fed. The scones certainly sparked a fierce debate in the prison: jam or cream first?

Special appreciation goes to our volunteers, including Spencer Mulholland, Trustee Stella Sykes, and all the wonderful supporters and local businesses who helped make the day such a huge success.

As the six swap their jumpsuits for business suits once again, there is still time to donate. Click here if you wish to do so.