News

On Thursday 18 April, 70-year-old veteran Derek Newman from Bath will embark on a chilling and courageous 24-hour stay inside one of the world’s most haunted prisons.

Armed with nothing more than a sleeping bag and a single candle, Derek will spend the night alone in the notoriously haunted 17th-century HM Prison Shepton Mallet. Derek will be confronting the unknown to raise vital funds for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

Having served 20 years in security in the RAF and military, Derek is no stranger to high-pressure environments. But even he admits this challenge will test him in a new way.

I’ve faced a lot in my life, but this is something entirely different. I’m apprehensive about the overnight stay – anyone would be – but I’m passionate about raising money for CHSW.

CHSW is a local children’s hospice that provides care for babies, children, and young people throughout the South West. Their services include short breaks, specialist play, sibling activities, and end-of-life care. With annual operational costs exceeding £12 million across its three hospice locations, CHSW relies on voluntary donations, with less than 11% of its funding coming from the government.

Heidi Roberts, Area Fundraiser for CHSW added: “Derek hopes his eerie endurance test will raise both funds and awareness for the incredible work of the charity, having had loved ones use the local children's hospice Charlton Farm, in Wraxall. We cannot thank Derek enough for doing this chilling challenge, and the Landlords of The Old Crown in Twerton for supporting Derek in his fundraising with a raffle and a karaoke night”.

Supporters can donate via clicking the link here and using the reference ‘Derek’ to support his brave challenge to help raise vital funds for the local children's hospice.