Rounds of boċċi on the roof in the dark, intense Scrabble tournaments and mind-boggling games of Trivial Pursuit were well worth the toil as they helped raise over €5,000 for the Malta Hospice Movement.

Last Sunday at 2 p.m. saw the end of a 24-hour games marathon organised by Polly March.

The marathon was inspired by Ms March’s sister, Anne Bradley, ex-director of the British Council, who died of cancer in March 2008.

In recognition of the hugely practical help and support given to her and to her family by the Malta Hospice Movement, her sister wanted to create an event to raise funds for the hospice.

Actor Alan Montanaro brought the marathon to a close with some touching and poignant memories of his own and some pithy quotes about hope, and being positive.

Over 40 people came and went and played throughout that time. Sixteen people made it through the long night hours, with eggs, toast and bacon at 8 a.m.

Games played included Canasta, Snap, Cluedo, Monopoly, Jenga, Cranium and even a jigsaw puzzle was completed.

The Malta Hospice Movement is a voluntary organisation inspired by Christian values. It exists to provide and promote the highest standards of palliative care for all persons with cancer, motor neurone disease and other terminal diseases.

Visit www.hospicemalta.org and The Malta Hospice Movement Facebook page for more information.