Empine boss joins Rosemere management committee

Jacob Knowles, co-founder of Darwen-based printing firm Empine Group has joined Rosemere Cancer Foundation’s Management Committee.

The charitable foundation works to bring world class treatments and services to cancer patients from throughout Lancashire and South Cumbria.

It operates the Rosemere Cancer Centre, the specialist cancer treatment and radiotherapy centre at the Royal Preston Hospital, and eight other local hospital cancer units across the two counties, including those at the Royal Blackburn and Burnley General Teaching Hospitals.

Jacob, 29, has been aware of the Rosemere Cancer Foundation since he was a schoolboy when his Auntie Pamela was diagnosed with cancer, a disease which has also impacted his grandparents’ lives.

He said: “Rosemere gave invaluable support to me and my family, which even at primary school age left a lasting impression and one which I have never forgotten.

"I’ve been fortunate to have heard in detail about the projects funded by Rosemere. Knowing where the money has been spent and the impact it really has on lives makes any time and effort worth it.

“I honestly feel humbled and privileged to have been invited to join the management committee. I will be representing the charity’s many volunteers and supporters in deciding what projects are to receive funding. It’s a responsibility I by no means take for granted as I’m very aware that the funds have all come through people’s kind donation.”

Dan Hill, head of charities for Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jacob to Rosemere Cancer Foundation’s Management Committee.

“We try to ensure the committee is representative of supporters and patients using cancer services in Lancashire and South Cumbria. Having someone like Jacob, who is under 30 and fundraises by taking on physical challenges, is important to achieving the right balance.”

Dan added: “Jacob is an exceptional guy. Not only has he managed to build a successful business through a pandemic and difficult economic times, he is unstintingly loyal and committed in his support. He has gone from fundraising to all-round volunteer. He will be a great asset to the committee, which sometimes has difficult choices to make.”