Lord Jones delivers straight-talking speech to Exeter businesses

Over 200 guests of Hospiscare enjoyed hearing from the renowned business guru Lord Digby Jones at a dinner held at the University of Exeter on Wednesday (22nd April) evening.

Lord Jones spoke to the local business community on diverse subjects such as his running of the London Marathon, being interviewed by Jeremy Paxman and the British success in Formula One.

On the general election, he voiced his concern over two issues that he felt no political party was addressing: illiteracy, which he described as the ‘biggest obstacle to growth,’ and the rising age of the population, where he felt that the pension model ‘was not fit for purpose.’ To whichever party gained power he pleaded ‘Please don’t mess with the economy; because it’s doing really well.’

Hospiscare were delighted with the evening, which was hosted by the University of Exeter and sponsored by Stones solicitors: ‘It was fabulous to have such a down-to-earth, and so well respected, business leader to speak for us, and was a privilege to hear. We also had a great draw and auction with donations from local supporters, and the guests were very generous on the night.’ - Richard Cousins, Hospiscare fundraiser.

Guest Jonathan Alder of Alder and Alder commented on his Twitter account “Thanks Hospiscare for a fantastic evening at your business dinner. Lord Jones was very entertaining! University of Exeter food was fabulous.” Steve Russell of Devonshire Homes added “Great evening last night supporting Hospiscare and very thought provoking after dinner speech by Lord Jones.”

The draw had prizes from Powderham Castle, Exeter City FC, Otter Nurseries, Woodbury Park, The Mecure Southgate Hotel and the Jockey Club and raised over £1,300. Nick Agg-Manning, Hospiscare Trustee auctioned off donations from the Virtual Jet Centre, Baroness Butler-Sloss, Le-Roy Funerals, Terry Radmore, the Deer Park Hotel and Outdoor Adventure Consultants. However, the star of the show was a giant, 5-foot teddy bear that went for an amazing £550!

The local charity hope to have raised nearly £10,000 from Lord Jones’ visit, which is a welcome contribution to their specialist service for local people living with a terminal illness. ENDS