Arthur Rank Hospice thanks Cambridgeshire businesses for raising over £13,000 in a challenge set by sponsors

Arthur Rank Hospice has said a massive thank you to local businesses for their continued support – one event raising over £13,000.

The ingenious fundraising strategies of 14 community-minded businesses took in the accumulator challenge sponsored by ARM, at the end of last year, and raised £13,297.08.

Dr Lynn Morgan, chief executive of the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, said: “Their fantastic efforts have provided a great boost for the hospice charity.

“We need to raise over £7 million a year to deliver our services free of charge to patients and their loved ones: something which is only possible with the local community’s support.

She said: “We pride ourselves in pushing out all the stops here at the hospice, whether that’s in our care and pursuit of excellence, or the passion with which we pursue our fundraising aims.

“Our ambition is to keep providing the best possible services for those we care for and part of that is ensuring we meet our fundraising targets for the next year.

Dr Morgan said the charity was proud of every person who joined in with fundraising activities at the end of last year.

Over £12,500 was donated by individuals participating in our Christmas tree recycling scheme and more than £14,500 was raised by festive runners taking part in Ely Festive 5K.

Liz Webb, director of clinical services, said: “£50 raised by a participant at one of our outdoor events may not seem like a lot when you hear that we have annual running costs of £7.45 million.

“But if you break it down and consider that £50 has contributed to £40,000, which could pay for 153 episodes of Hospice at Home for people that desperately need our care overnight between 10pm and 7am, it becomes a very significant contribution.

“Every pound each person donates makes a real difference to someone at a personal level, especially as we are caring for them at such a critical and important time for them and their family.”

Prolific fund raiser Tony Murdock, director of Quy Mill Hotel and Spa explained why his team are keen to support the hospice charity every year.

“The staff comes up with all the ideas themselves – this year we had pumpkin carving, a quiz night, Christmas jumper say a raffle - they really love getting involved.”

If you’d prefer to design your own challenge or host your own community fundraising event to fit with your own passions, aims and interests, the charity would love to hear from you too.

Simply call 01223 675875 and talk to Alison, who will put you in touch with a member of the fundraising team.