We asked our supporters to get involved with the 2.6 Challenge – and, as always, they didn’t let us down! Joining in with the national campaign to ‘save the Uk’s charities’, our supporters did a variety of extraordinary challenges to raise funds for St Mary’s whilst on lockdown. An amazing £9,000 has been raised by our brilliant community – enough to pay for the running costs of the hospice services for an entire day!
Walney Wind Cheatahs and their cubs did the most extraordinary amount of fundraising through their 26 mile relay. Families all got involved with running their share of the total mileage, while the baton was passed virtually between them, ensuring everyone adhered to social distancing rules. Organiser Amy Singleton remarked “To be honest I am amazed at how much we have managed to raise in these hard times, it just goes to show that we really do have some very kind, generous thoughtful people about.”
Barrow Raiders have put their staff and players to work doing a variety of challenges based around the numbers 2.6 and 26 for 26 days. Siona Hartley, Barrow Raiders Schools and Community Liaison Officer, explained “We’ve done a whole variety of things for the challenge, including trampolining, litter picking, press-ups and even a daisy chain! It’s a great way to stay connected with our supports and to show our support for St Mary’s too”
7 year old Tilly knew exactly what she wanted to do – dance to 26 songs in a row! Her mum Lynsey said ‘Tilly planned her outfit and her water breaks, everything! She was so proud to be raising money, she understands that St Mary’s is a special place and wanted to do her bit’.
The residents of Penny Bridge will have enjoyed Alison Alger’s cake lottery over 26 consecutive days for the 2.6 Challenge – each day a lucky winner has received a freshly baked cake! Ali said ‘We wanted to do something that would raise people’s spirits and put a smile on their faces at this difficult time, as well as bring the village together in some way. Luckily there haven’t been any complaints about my baking! Lots of people have donated ingredients, it’s been really lovely and a success, not just in raising much needed funds’.
London Marathon entrant Trudi Dewar used the 2.6 challenge to run up and down her stairs, as well as offer a prize of a meal for 4 in her pub the Stan Laurel, to be enjoyed after lockdown. She said ‘I am so proud to be running for St Mary’s in the London Marathon in October – it felt good to do something positive on the 26th April, the day we should have been running’.
So thank you all – to everyone who has run, walked and cycled, who has climbed stairs, kicked balls, baked cakes and done something extra for the 2.6 Challenge, and to all who have donated. We really couldn’t do what we do without you, and your support at this time is even more gratefully received.
