A BRENTWOOD business man has become the new patron of a hospice which cared for his mother-in-law.

Matchroom Sport founder Barry Hearn, 67, has spent many years supporting the Saint Francis Hospice and has raised more than £300,000 over the years.

The hospice cared for his mother-in-law in 2005 while she battled cancer.

Mr Hearn, who managed six time snooker champion Steve Davis and currently promotes British IBF Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua, said: “It is an honour to become a patron of Saint Francis Hospice.

“I am a strong believer that charity begins at home and what better way is there, than to support a charity where you can really see the difference your support makes to local people in the community.”

Saint Francis Hospice is an independent charity and one of the largest adult hospices in the UK.

Its team of specialist consultants, doctors, nurses and a range of other health and social care professionals provide care and support to people with a life-limiting illness, as well as their carers and family members, completely free of charge.

Pam Court, Chief Executive of the hospice, said she was thrilled that Barry had agreed to take on this new role.

“Barry Hearn has been a committed supporter of the hospice for many years now, donating his time, creating awareness and raising over £230,000 in the process,” said Pam.

“We are delighted that Barry has taken our cause to his heart and look forward to working with him to support local people with end of life care needs.”

The businessman has helped attract supporters to the charity and works closely with the fundraising team to promote exclusive events including golf days at Thorndon Park Golf and Country Club and Abridge Golf and Country Club as well as the clay pigeon shoot days at Down Hall Country House.

He is also responsible for the development of the hospice’s Business Alliance Group, which was set up to give local businesses an opportunity to network while fundraising for their local hospice, since it started last year, as well as donating an new drinks trolley to a hospice ward.

And in March Barry raised the spirits of patients on the Inpatient Ward by donating a new drinks trolley, which is commonly known as the “mobile bar.”