Late Strictly star’s son relaunches fundraising memory tree in his name
The son of the late Strictly Come Dancing judge and Demelza celebrity ambassador Len Goodman has relaunched a fundraising memory tree inspired by him.
James Goodman attended an open garden at the charity’s hospice in Bobbing on Sunday (28 June).
There were around 150 guests in attendance at the event, including Mayor of Swale, Cllr Derek Carnell.
Visitors had the chance to explore the beautiful hospice grounds, including the Garden of Tranquillity.
There were locally grown plants and fresh produce from Demelza’s grounds for sale, as well as a flower arranging activity and a demonstration from a local beekeeper with honey tasting.
There were even strawberries for sale from Hugh Lowe Farms, the official supplier of Wimbledon’s famous strawberries for more than 30 years.
The Goodman Tree, which was inspired by the late Len Goodman as a long-term supporter of Demelza, was relaunched by his son James.
The tree offers people the chance to purchase a copper leaf as a meaningful way to remember or celebrate the life of a loved one. Leaves can be engraved with a personal message, creating a unique and lasting tribute.
As part of the relaunch, James added an engraved star to the tree in memory of Len.
Speaking at the event, James said: “It means a great deal to me to stand here today and relaunch the Goodman Tree. It was originally inspired by my dad, Len Goodman - a man so many people knew for his warmth, his wit and his unmistakable presence.
“Dad was a long-term supporter of Demelza and he cared deeply about the charity and understood Demelza doesn’t just provide expert clinical care but helps celebrate the joy in family life, making precious memories during challenging times. That mattered enormously to him.
“He was always proud to do whatever he could to help, appearing on TV quiz shows and winning money for Demelza, lending his voice to Demelza’s Christmas campaign and recording messages for staff and volunteers as well as taking part in radio adverts and reading at Demelza’s Celebration of Christmas. Those weren’t just appearances to him - they were acts of genuine commitment to a cause he believed in wholeheartedly.
“That is why this tree feels so special. Each leaf represents a life, a treasured memory and a valued supporter. Together, they create something lasting: a place of remembrance, reflection and love.
“I’m delighted to relaunch the Goodman Tree today and I know Dad would have been so proud - as I am - to see his legacy continuing in this way. He would have loved the thought that something bearing his name could help celebrate a life or a moment, while also supporting a charity that means so much to so many. For me personally, that is incredibly moving.”
James also thanked guests for being part of the event and for supporting Demelza and its work.
Demelza’s Area Fundraising Manager, Loren Regan, said: “Our open garden was a lovely event and I’d like to thank everyone who joined us in the glorious sunshine.
“It was a pleasure to welcome so many people into our beautiful grounds and to see them enjoying the gardens and learning about Demelza.
“We are so grateful to James Goodman for joining us in relaunching the Goodman Tree, which made the event all the more special.”
"Dad was a long-term supporter of Demelza and he cared deeply about the charity and understood Demelza doesn’t just provide expert clinical care but helps celebrate the joy in family life, making precious memories during challenging times. That mattered enormously to him."
