A STUNNING handmade model of Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice has made a welcome return after spending 12 years in a garage.

The model, which measures three to four feet in length, is a replica of the hospice building which is based in Headingley, Leeds. An impressive Grade ll listed manor house set in its own leafy grounds, the hospice provides expert palliative care and support for people who are living with a life-limiting condition.

In October 2023, retired police officer Ceri Carter contacted staff at the hospice having found the model in her garage, where it had been since 2012.

Ceri said: “In 1997, I was a police officer working for West Yorkshire Police, based at Killingbeck Police Station. At that time, I was working as a Crime Prevention Officer, providing advice and training in relation to personal safety, security, CCTV and architectural liaison. As part of this role, I provided training for police officers and also to a number of local agencies, private and public organisations and charities.

“That summer, I attended Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice to provide advice on their new lottery that was due to be launched. During the visit I was told about a model of the hospice that had been created by the 'Friends of Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice', which had been on display in the reception area of the building.

“Staff were trying to find a new home for the model and I mentioned that I could use it when delivering security and CCTV presentations. We thought it would be a great way to raise awareness around personal safety and show partnership working!

“I used the model regularly until 1999 when I moved to Millgarth Police Station on promotion. At that time, the model was being stored and used by the West Yorkshire Police Training Centre at Bishopgarth, Wakefield. Later, the model was used by the Firearms Training and Operational Support departments during exercises, to demonstrate how to deploy resources when surrounding a building.

“In 2012, I had retired as a police officer and was in the process of moving house when I got a phone call from one of the Firearms Trainers asking if I wanted the model back, as the Police Training Centre was being moved and the site sold for redevelopment.

“The model was then returned to me and taken to my new home, where it was stored in my garage. And that’s where it’s lived ever since!”

During lockdown in 2020, Ceri was clearing out her garage and came across the model by chance. Ceri continued: “My husband and I wanted to turn our garage into a gym, and it was only when we started moving things around that I came across the model! I remembered that there had been a newspaper article about it, so set about trying to find it. Having found the article, I got in touch with the hospice to arrange its return.

“The model needs a good clean and some TLC but is in pretty good condition given its very interesting history!”

Paul Musgrave, Service Director at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice said: “We were delighted to hear from Ceri and to learn all about the model’s intriguing past! It’s incredible to think it’s been used in so many different ways over the years and helped so many people. We’re delighted to see it back in the hospice, where it will be enjoyed by staff and patients alike.

“I’d like to thank Ceri for looking after it so well and for sharing its wonderful story.”