Cransley Hospice Trust Patron Rev Dr John Smith MBE Celebrates Honour at Windsor Castle
Cransley Hospice Trust is delighted to share the wonderful news…
Our Patron, Rev Dr John Smith MBE, recently attended Windsor Castle to formally accept his honour, accompanied by his wife and son.
This special occasion marks a significant and well-deserved moment of recognition for Rev Dr John Smith, who has been an advocate and driving force behind palliative and end-of-life care in North Northamptonshire for more than 27 years.
The story of Cransley Hospice Trust itself is the inspiration of Rev Dr John Smith’s compassion and commitment. In 2012, the fundraising for palliative and end of life care in North Northamptonshire began in the most humble of ways — with a sock, where he safely stowed money donated in gratitude by patients and families for the care their loved ones had received. From those modest beginnings, the Trust was formed in 2012 and has grown into the charity it is today.
Cransley Hospice Trust supports patients and families from across the north of the county. In 2024 alone, more than 190 patients received compassionate, specialist care at the hospice. Alongside inpatient care, the charity supports the hospice at home service and other vital services such as the Hummingbird Bereavement Service.
Rev Dr John Smith MBE commented, “The MBE is an honour that I received on behalf of everyone who supports and works for Cransley Hospice and the palliative care team. What an honour for us all.”
Histireless dedication, leadership and vision have helped shaped palliative and end-of-life care for local people, offering comfort, dignity and support at a very difficult time.
Speaking about the occasion, Philip Talbot, Chief Executive for Cransley Hospice Trust said:
“We are immensely proud of Rev Dr John Smith and everything he has achieved for our community. From the earliest days of the charity to the organisation we have today, his compassion and determination have been at the heart of everything we do. This honour is a fitting tribute to a lifetime of selfless service.”
As Patron of Cransley Hospice Trust, Rev Dr John Smith remains a passionate advocate for hospice care and the essential role it plays within our community. His recognition at Windsor Castle not only celebrates his personal achievements, but also shines a spotlight on the importance of palliative and end-of-life care across Northamptonshire and beyond.
The Trust extends its heartfelt congratulations to Rev Dr John Smith and his family on this truly special and memorable occasion.
