It is not every afternoon you hear two generations of one family share readings and stories from a lifetime in the arts, find Sir Derek Jacobi among the guests, and explore one of Dorset’s most historic country houses. But that is exactly what happened at Smedmore House recently, at an event sponsored by Baggette + Co. Wealth Management in support of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.
Smedmore House has stood on the Purbeck coast for over 400 years. Tucked into the landscape between Kimmeridge Bay and the Jurassic Coast, it provided a fitting setting for an afternoon that felt both intimate and generous in spirit.
Stories from stage and screen
The heart of the afternoon was a session led by Richard Clifford, with Edward Fox, Joanna David and their daughter Emilia Fox sharing readings and reflecting on their lives in the performing arts. The conversation covered careers on stage and screen, family life, and what three generations in the industry has really looked like.
Sir Derek Jacobi was also among the guests, supporting the event and the work of Lewis-Manning.
Before the readings, Dr Philip Mansel and his cousin Sylvia guided guests through the history of Smedmore House itself, bringing centuries of stories to life within the very rooms where much of that history unfolded. The afternoon closed with champagne and cream tea in a relaxed setting, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the surroundings and the company.
Oscar Hjalmas, CEO of Baggette + Co Wealth Management, said:
“Days like this remind you why community matters. You have two generations of one family speaking openly about their lives, Sir Derek Jacobi in the audience, and a beautiful Dorset house with centuries of stories of its own. All of it in support of a charity that does extraordinary work for people and families right here in Dorset. We were proud to be part of it, and proud to support an organisation that means so much to so many people across the county.”
Supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is an independent Dorset charity that provides free, person-centred support to over a thousand patients and families each year. Its services span hubs across Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Wareham and Swanage, helping people live well through life-limiting illness and reducing the isolation that so often comes with it.
The charity relies heavily on the generosity of its local community. Only a small proportion of its funding comes from the NHS, which means events like this are not just social occasions. They are a lifeline. The afternoon at Smedmore House raised enough to fund 128 hours of patient care for local people and families when they need it most.
Reflecting on the afternoon, Clare Gallie, CEO of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, added:
“We are so grateful to Baggette + Co for their generous sponsorship. Without their support, we simply could not have put on an afternoon of this calibre. Every penny raised will make a real difference to local people and families at the time when they need us most.”
Baggette + Co. has supported Lewis-Manning, sponsoring events including In Conversation with Kate Adie, the Muddy Dog Dash and now this special afternoon at Smedmore House. It is a relationship built on shared values and a genuine respect for the work the charity does, day in, day out, for families across the region.
We are grateful to the Lewis-Manning team and to everyone involved in making the afternoon at Smedmore House so memorable. We look forward to continuing our support for future events and playing our part in helping this important Dorset charity thrive.
Find out more about Lewis-Manning Hospice Care at lewis-manning.org.uk