Spire South Bank Hospital take to their bikes and boats for charity

On Friday 28^th June, a team from Spire South Bank Hospital collectively cycled 1,421 miles raising money for local and national charities.

Worcester charities Maggs Day Centre and Worcester Snoezelen were nominated as South Bank’s ‘Charities of the Year’ because of their fantastic work that benefits a cross section of people within the region.

Staff and consultants from South Bank, along with a Trustee from Worcester Snoezelen, took part in a ‘100k in a day’ cycle ride from Spire South Bank Hospital to Spire Bristol Hospital. Experienced and non-experienced cyclists alike took on the 77 mile challenge through the beautiful countryside and tow paths of Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, lasting over 7.5 hours in the saddle.

Meanwhile, at South Bank, staff cycled non-stop for 6 hours on a static bike, totalling 112 miles.

Together, they raised a total of over £3,300 for the two local charities, with a proportion going to Spire Healthcare’s nominated charity, Tropical Health Education Trust (THET).

Not satisfied with just one challenge, a team also took part in the annual ‘Race the Dragon’ race on the river on Sunday 7^th July. 16 staff formed the crew and raced 4 times over the day, clocking up consistent times and having a huge amount of fun.

Tom Ryder, Hospital Director said “The team have gone above and beyond to raise money for these worthwhile charities. The ride couldn’t have gone better with glorious weather and a very picturesque route, many of the previous non-cyclists have now caught the cycling bug! The ‘Spire Dragons’ also can’t wait to take to the water again next year.

I am very proud of both teams achievement and the amount raised for Maggs Day Centre and Worcester Snoezelen. Supporting the local community where our patients and staff live and work is very important to us”.

Val Turner, Volunteer Coordinator from Maggs Day Centre said "We are delighted to be chosen as one of South Bank’s chosen charities this year. In doing so it keeps the issue of homelessness in the spotlight and we rely heavily on financial support from the public to maintain the services".

Jane Roberts, Chief Officer at Worcester Snoezelen said “We are thrilled to be chosen by Spire South Bank Hospital as a Charity of the Year. We are a charity specialising in ‘sensory happiness’ and rely on donations to continue offering leisure therapy to people with learning disabilities and additional needs. The support of the hospital and its staff is an incredible a boost”.