Sale author writes history of local children's hospice

Author, broadcaster and journalist Andy Buckley has enjoyed a prolific year on the writing front with the publication of his second book.

 Andy Buckley with his two books published in 2023 © Andy Buckley

‘A Worthwhile Error’ documents the history of Francis House, one of the first children’s hospices in the country. 

Andy, from Sale, was also the ghost-writer for the recently published ‘You Saw Me Standing Alone’, the autobiography of former Manchester City goalkeeper Alex Williams.    

Andy said: “The two books are totally different, but hopefully both leave a profound impact with their amazing stories.” 

‘A Worthwhile Error’ was a phrase coined by co-founder Sister Aloysius FMSJ to describe the decision to build the hospice with hardly any money. 

Her gamble paid off thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors and the first children’s hospice in the northwest was duly built from a convent in Didsbury, South Manchester.

Some 16 religious Sisters sacrificed their home so that much-needed respite care could be provided for youngsters with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. 

More than 1,500 families have received help since the charity first opened its doors late in 1991, when Princess Diana performed the official opening. 

The book explains how brave youngster Kirsty Howard put Francis House on the map by raising more than £5m to ensure the hospice’s survival when it was struggling financially.  

Kirsty - born with a rare heart condition - starred alongside David Beckham when handing the baton to Queen Elizabeth II at the Opening Ceremony of the 2002 Commonwealth Games. 

Endless stories of dedicated volunteers include the amazing sacrifice made by Pauline Armitage MBE who spent 26 years working a 40-hour week as a bookkeeper without pay. It was her way of giving to the hospice. 

Chief Executive David Ireland has been with the hospice since the start. His first involvement was as an architect, designing the building. 

He said: “The book is an in-depth look at the rich history of Francis House. It shares the stories of the many personalities involved including, most importantly, the wonderful families who have passed through our doors.” 

‘A Worthwhile Error – The History of Francis House Children’s Hospice’ is available for £19.95 (plus P&P) by calling the hospice on 0161 434 4118 or from francishouse.org.uk/online-shop. All proceeds will be donated to the care of children, young people and their families.