The Mountbatten Group, which delivers end-of-life care on the Isle of Wight, in Southampton and across large parts of Hampshire, is delighted to welcome broadcaster, presenter, author and gardener, Alan Titchmarsh, CBE, as its patron.

In accepting the role, Alan wrote: “I have long admired the compassionate achievements of the hospice, its unique ethos and the dedication of the staff.”

Alan succeeds former Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Major General Sir Martin White, who is stepping back from his role with Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Mountbatten Hampshire.

Martin recently met Alan at Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s hospice site, in Halberry Lane in Newport, to formally hand over the reins to a role that involves championing the expert care delivered by Mountbatten staff, both on its inpatient units and in homes across the two counties.

Photo: From left, Chair of Trustees, Sir Ian Cheshire; Alan Titchmarsh, CBE; Major General Sir Martin White; Mountbatten CEO, Nigel Hartley, MBE.

In his letter of acceptance, Alan said becoming a patron is an honour.

Also on hand to welcome him to the organisation was Mountbatten CEO, Nigel Hartley, MBE.

Nigel said: “We are delighted Alan has agreed to lend his support to Mountbatten in this way.

“He is one of the country’s best-known individuals and his contribution to the vital work of our staff and volunteers will be significant and hugely appreciated.”

Read more about Mountbatten: Meet the new Mountbatten CEO who will succeed Nigel Hartley in September

Photo: Some of Mountbatten's trustees with, Chair of Trustees, Sir Ian Cheshire (back, centre left); Alan Titchmarsh, CBE (from, centre); Major General Sir Martin White (front, right); Mountbatten CEO, Nigel Hartley, MBE (back, right).

Meanwhile, Mr Hartley paid tribute to Major General Sir Martin White for his unstinting support.

Echoing Nigel’s thoughts, Mountbatten’s chair of trustees, Sir Ian Cheshire, said: “Martin has been a driving force in ensuring Mountbatten has remained in the heart of our communities, on the Isle of Wight, in Southampton and across large parts of Hampshire.

“We thank him for everything he has done to support Mountbatten and warmly welcome Alan, at a time when hospices are facing difficult financial challenges. His backing is very positive news.”