‘Every pound helps us’ - South Shields gymgoers back the borough’s NHS charity
Gymgoers made the most of South Tyneside’s coast to raise hundreds of pounds for an NHS charity.
Members and staff of the Gym Group South Shields – as well as supporters – put their best feet forward for an eight-mile round trip challenge.
In walking from the Weebles art installation, near Littlehaven Beach at South Shields, to Marsden’s historic Souter Lighthouse, they collected £260.
The money will be donated to the STS Charity, the official charity of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.
Around two dozen people took part in the leisurely stroll which started on the morning of Saturday, August 29, and took three-and-a-half hours to complete.
Along the way, they took refreshment breaks – and celebrated reaching the finishing line with a drink and a bite to eat.
‘Such a good charity’
The walk was the latest fundraising activity the gym has held on behalf of the charity and since last year, it has raised close to £2,300.
Gym Group South Shields general manager, Simone Liscombe, said: “Luckily, and against the forecast, the weather turned out really nice for a walk.
“The sun broke through and it generally stayed dry which put a spring in our steps and added to the enjoyment of being out and about for a good cause.
“The coast between South Shields and Souter is an inspiring sight all year round and it was a breath-taking backdrop to our fundraiser.
“I’m really happy that so many of our members and supporters, along with staff, came along to support the walk.
“It’s good that we were able to get together, make some new friends and raise money for such a good charity.”
‘Every pound helps us’
Nichola Taylor, Head of STS Charity, praised the Gym Group and its supporters for their ongoing fundraising efforts.
She said: “We’re incredibly grateful to The Gym Group South Shields for raising £260 through their coastal walk at the weekend. Their continued support means so much to us.
“Every pound helps us enhance staff and patient care and experience across South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.
“It’s fantastic to see local people coming together, getting active and supporting their local NHS services.”
Donations to the Gym Group’s fundraising can be made at https://stsft.enthuse.com/cf/the-gym-group.