Consett House Builder Backs Heartwarming Children's Book Project at Willow Burn Hospice
A Consett-based house builder, Amethyst Homes, is playing a pivotal role in supporting the creation of a new children's book at Willow Burn Hospice in Lanchester, County Durham. This unique storytelling project is designed to help young people navigate the challenging journey of bereavement in a safe and nurturing way.
Funding and Collaboration for a Meaningful Cause
The initiative has been made possible through funds raised from the Dysart Group's annual inter-company golf day last year. Amethyst Homes, with support from 12 other businesses including Dysart and Absolute Civil Engineering, has contributed to this special project. To date, Amethyst Homes and the Dysart Group have raised more than £5,000 for Willow Burn Hospice through various dedicated activities.
These fundraising efforts include the gruelling 180-mile "Coast to Castle" cycle from Tynemouth to Edinburgh, regular annual charity golf days, and a mortgage matching initiative with the Mortgage Advice Bureau, where donations were made to the hospice for every mortgage arranged.
Introducing Will O'Burn: A Rabbit Mascot to Guide Children
The upcoming illustrated picture book, titled 'Will O'Burn and the Friends Who Remember', features the hospice's beloved rabbit mascot, Will O'Burn. This collaborative work between author Victoria Downes and illustrator Helen Turner aims to provide families with a supportive resource during difficult times.
By using storytelling and engaging characters, the book seeks to help children explore grief and remembrance without pressure, fear, or overwhelm, opening the door to meaningful conversations about loss.
Community Support and Heartfelt Reactions
Rachel Quince, deputy chief executive and head of fundraising and marketing at Willow Burn Hospice, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. "We are thrilled that with help from some very special supporters including Amethyst Homes, that we can bring this story and fantastic resource to fruition," she said. "Storytelling and characters like Will O'Burn can help young people navigate loss by opening the door to meaningful conversations without pressure, fear or overwhelm."
Richard Bass, managing director at Amethyst Homes, highlighted the company's commitment to local charities. "As a local business, we are keen to support vital charities in our area. Willow Burn is central to the community, and we are pleased our fundraising is helping young people navigate the complex emotions of grief," he added.
Availability and Additional Supporters
The book 'Will O'Burn and the Friends Who Remember' is set to be available from June 2026. In addition to Amethyst Homes, the project has been funded by Conside Masonic Lodge, Durham Freemasons Rotary Club of Consett, Wolsingham School, and Willow Burn Hospice itself, showcasing broad community involvement in this compassionate endeavour.
