Tributes have been paid to the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity co-founder, who passed away unexpectedly aged 87.   

Dr Tim Hunt was a pioneer in changing the way dying people are cared for and medications he developed are still widely used today.     

He secured initial funding with the Arthur Rank Foundation and MacMillan Cancer Relief to build the region’s first hospice with David Bratherton in 1981.   

Dr Hunt was also its first medical director until he retired in 2002. 

The poor care that his first, and late, wife Johanna received when she developed breast cancer is what inspired him to change career from medical research to practicing medicine.   

After setting up the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, he supported the establishment of six more hospices in the East of England.   

Dr Hunt also developed teaching programmes for medical professionals to improve care for people who are dying.     

His expertise was so widely respected that he was invited to care for members of the royal household.   

For this, he was admitted to the Royal Victorian Order which recognises distinguished personal service to the monarch. 

Dr Hunt passed away on March 1, 2024.   

He is survived by his wife Athene and the couple met when she was working as a nurse at Old Addenbrooke's Hospital, in Cambridge.   

A celebration of his life was held at Holy Trinity Church, in Hildersham, on April 3.   

Sharon Allen, chief executive officer of the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, said: “All of us who have experienced the compassionate care provided by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity have reason to be very grateful to Tim for his vision, his skill, and his determination.   

“Thank you for everything Tim, rest in peace.” 

The Arthur Rank Hospice Charity cares for around 3,600 patients each year at its hospice in Cambridge, the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre, in Wisbech, and in patients’ own homes.

  • If you would like to send a message of condolence to Dr Hunt's family, email louise.hepburn@newsquest.co.uk