Over £3,000 raised for Sussex Snowdrop Trust during New Year’s Day virtual fundraiser

Nearly 100 people took part in the Ride of Hope for The Sussex Snowdrop Trust, which was organised by Chichester woman Elaine Hart, founder of POWER Fitness Events.

The event celebrated the importance of connections and movement with each participant dedicating an hour of movement and shared the experience with others.

The session was hosted online and saw people enjoying the outdoors across the county and beyond.

Many people took to the Centurion Way in Chichester and there were also tennis players in Arundel, while others took to the beach with their dogs in Aldwick.

Others enjoyed cycling in the warmth of their homes, dressed in vivid rainbow colours, all embracing the theme of hope for the new year.

Di Levantine, co-founder and chairman of The Sussex Snowdrop Trust, said: “This was a wonderful event to begin 2021. Elaine created such a positive and motivational hour of movement. It was incredible to see so many faces taking part remotely.

“I walked for the session but I could see people playing tennis, people running and cycling and families out with buggies and dogs! There were local businesses that took part as well as Snowdrop families.

“One Snowdrop parent, Becky Yeoman, who we have known for many years as we have supported her daughter, Eve, completed a half marathon on the day which was an incredible achievement.

“The charity is extremely grateful to Elaine for setting this up. The symbol of the Snowdrop was chosen for the charity 28 years ago when it was founded. This flower represents hope and we as a trust continue to give support, vital nursing care and hope to our Snowdrop families.

“The families have to overcome so many challenges when looking after their sick child. They are very brave.

“The connections in the community who assist in fundraising is vital to us. To start 2021 with this positive Ride of Hope is fantastic.

“Thank you to everyone who took part and contributed to the £3,250 raised so far.

“The event planning looks very unpredictable for 2021 but we have adapted well to the Covid restrictions.

“Our Snowdrop Care at Home Team continue to give the best care to the families and we are currently supporting 64 families in the area whose child has a life threatening or terminal illness.

“This feeling of togetherness was very powerful on New Year’s Day and we are so grateful for the continued support from the community.”

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/power-fitness-events

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