Strathcarron Hospice confirms huge fundraising total for virtual 10k event

When the coronavirus pandemic put a stop to fundraising events and campaigns, the team at Strathcarron Hospice had to get creative.

With more than £12,900 a day needed to keep vital services running, the hospice simply couldn't afford to stand still.

Last month, the Fankerton facility hosted its first-ever virtual 10k race in which participants were asked to devise their own route and complete the course any time from 6:00am to 6:00pm to see their times on the online leader board.

Runners who completed the challenge were also offered 20 per cent off a sports massage at Life Fit Wellness in Falkirk and up to 50 per cent off food and drink at Johnston's Bar and Bistro in the town, with both businesses sponsoring the event.

Organisers are now delighted to confirm the 206 runners who took part raised £35,339 – a total that will be used to pay for more than two days of care.

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The participants included a team from Grangemouth accountancy firm, Drummond Laurie, who had their efforts generously matched by the business to boost the overall total by more than £3000.

Claire Macdonald, Strathcarron business development fundraiser, said: "Never did we think the virtual 10k would raise so much and we are so grateful to everyone for their support.

“This can pay for more than two full days of care across all of our services and it will make a real difference to people living with, and dying from, a terminal illness during the Covid-19 pandemic. Thank you.”

Gillian Niven, Drummond Laurie client care and development manager, said: “It was a great opportunity to be able to raise some much-needed funds for Strathcarron Hospice, as well as getting outside and enjoying a socially distanced run and walk around Falkirk with colleagues.”

Strathcarron's fundraising efforts have been devastated by the pandemic and the Hospice is thousands of pounds down on its income.

Anyone who wishes to make a donation or view upcoming virtual events can visit the website.

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