Marina calls time on fundraising after raising £41k for charities

Former Gogglebox star, Marina hosted her last-ever coffee morning after seventeen years of raising vital funds for local charities, including Macmillan, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and Children’s Hospice South West.

Marina’s dedication to a good cause was honoured at the special event attended by her fellow residents and representatives from Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and Children’s Hospice South West.

The money was raised by St Monica Trust residents at regular events organised by Marina, such as coffee mornings, afternoon teas and Christmas Fairs. Marina said: “It’s surprising over the years how all the money builds up. They just love quizzes and raffles in here. Any excuse to get together and have a chat amongst themselves!

“I’m very grateful to all the residents for their support. They’re very generous and they always buy a raffle ticket or donate prizes. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. I’m sorry to give it up, but it’s time for me to stop and have a rest now. I’ll be 90 at Christmas!”

"Passionate and dedicated"

Area Fundraiser for the Children’s Hospice South West, Amanda Leonard said: “We are truly grateful for the support we have received from Marina and her friends, and it has been a pleasure to get to know Marina over the years. Their regular coffee mornings have been a perfect way for friends to get together and catch up while also helping wonderful local causes.

“We would not be able to support over 250 families in the Bristol and Somerset area without the energy, devotion and sheer generosity of supporters just like Marina, as we rely on voluntary donations to continue to care for local children with life-limiting conditions and their families.”

Diana Roberts, Macmillan’s Relationship Fundraising Manager, said: “It is not often you get to meet people as passionate and dedicated to charity as Marina. She has supported Macmillan for many years and in that time has raised the equivalent of 446 nursing hours.

“Just imagine the number of lives that have been changed because of you Marina! You are a well-loved member of the Macmillan family and we are so grateful for your support. Thank you!”

Gogglebox

Marina appeared with best friend Mary on Channel 4’s Gogglebox, until Mary sadly passed away in 2021. The cheeky Bristolians quickly became firm favourites with the show’s legion of fans, which regularly attracts more than 3 million viewers each week.

Marina said: “I’ve lived with the St Monica Trust for 18 years. I enjoy my life here and wouldn’t want to have lived anywhere else. It’s a nice place to live. I’ll still go to the quizzes and I like my music and parties. It’s not like I can get up and dance any more, but that’s what my right hand’s for – to have a drink! I’ll still always available to help if needed.”

Retirement Village Manager, Claire Chambers said: “Whereas we’re sorry to see Marina call time on her charity work, we think that if anyone deserves a well-earned rest - it’s her. From raising money to organising events, to helping promote the work of the St Monica Trust, Marina’s contribution to our community has been huge – not to mention being the life and soul of our parties.”