Over 150 people put their best charity feet forward for local hospitals
Over 150 fundraisers were dotted across Southend seafront at the weekend, happy to stroll, strut and scoot their way along the route, whilst helping raise money for a Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust ward or department of their choice.
Friends, families, work colleagues, young and old, some in fancy dress, even two Ghostbusters, had all got up early to take part in Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity Walk For Wards, a 7km stroll along the seafront from Uncle Tom’s Cabin to Chalkwell shelter.
Some of the wards and departments that will be benefitting from the annual fun-walk – which could not happen last year due to Covid restrictions - include Elizabeth Loury ward, the early pregnancy unit, dementia services, the critical care unit, the Forwards Appeal and the emergency department.
Matthew Osborne, a charge nurse at Southend Hospital, accomplished the walk dressed as Rapunzel complete with light up hair. He said: “I’m so pleased to be able to take part this year, it's my first Walk For Wards and funds raised will go to the Paediatric A&E department at Southend Hospital.”
The sun was shining down on those taking part as they crossed the finishing line at Chalkwell shelter, welcomed by cheers and a medal for completing the walk.
Elise Fleetwood, Business Development & Marketing Manager for the charity, said: “We are so pleased that this event was able to take place this year following what’s a been a tough year for us all.
“Once again, our local community have shown us how much they support their local hospitals and the staff that have helped them or a loved one.
“Some are first timers and others are regulars on the walk, our thanks go out to each and every one of them. The response never fails to amaze us.
“I’d also like to thank our event sponsor Sea Life Adventure, ATP coaches for getting our participants back to the start, our volunteers and Ross Day Photography for his amazing images.”
The date has already been set for next year’s Walk For Wards event, Sunday 18 September. Please contact fundraising on 01702 385337 or via mse.charity@nhs.net if you are interested in taking part in 2022.