‘Inspiring’ Dr Moore retires from hospice

FAREWELL . . . Dr Kevin Moore (left) is presented with a painting of the hospice by Dr Kershaw’s chairman Colin Smith

Doctor Kevin Moore is to be the first honorary president of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice after retiring from the role of hospice director.

Doctor Moore, who has been one of the institution’s driving forces from its foundation, will act as an ambassador for the Royton hospice at community and fundraising events.

Over the years Dr Moore — who stood down as medical director in 2008 — has served as chairman of Oldham palliative care study group, Pennine Acute Trust’s clinical care lead for palliative care and treasurer of the Chernobyl Children Lifeline Oldham branch.

The 72-year-old former president of Saddleworth Rotary Club was a consultant anaesthetist at the Royal Oldham Hospital for almost 30 years.

He worked on the first test-tube baby project with consultant Patrick Steptoe and was drafted in by consultant Dr Naru Hira to support him in his dream of creating a hospice for the borough.

The ambitious plan, begun in 1984, involved four years of relentless fundraising and talks. Another year passed before the hospice opened.

The following year Mr Hira suffered a stroke and Dr Moore took on the lead role.

Jackie Conboy, the hospice’s executive manager, said: “Dr Moore has given us his time, energy and his inspiring vision of what the hospice could become. He will still be a big part of the hospice in the future but his presence will be missed by everyone.”