Romsey family pays rent of Naomi House & Jacksplace

This is an annual tradition for the hospices for children and young adults.

The presentation of the roses this year took place on Monday, June 23.

The tradition, which is believed to have started before the opening of the hospices in 1997, involves the presentation of 12 red roses as a peppercorn rent for the site on Sutton Manor Estate in Sutton Scotney.

From left, CEO Mark Smith; David Cornelius-Reid, Yvonne, Margot, Myra, Naomi Cornelius-Reid, and director of care Erika Lipscombe. (Image: Naomi House & Jacksplace) This symbolic gesture was requested by Mary Cornelius-Reid, who allowed the construction of the hospice on her land.

This year, the red roses were presented by three-year-old Margot, her mum Yvonne, and her nanny Myra to Mary's children Naomi and David.

Erika Lipscombe, the director of care at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: "Each year, this special occasion is a moment of deep pride for us all at Naomi House & Jacksplace."

Naomi Cornelius-Reid said: "Every year, I look forward to this date, where my brother and I get the opportunity to meet some of the remarkable families visiting Naomi House & Jacksplace."

During the presentation it was announced that the hospices' lease has been extended for another 120 years.