Fundraising for a Dorset charity’s 50^th anniversary year got off to a strong start with a gruelling five-hour exercise class.

More than 80 brave participants took part in ‘Attack for the Mac’ in aid of The Macmillan Unit based at Christchurch Hospital.

It was held at The Village Hotel Bournemouth’s leisure club.

Leanne Giddings, Community and Events Fundraiser for Macmillan Caring Locally, the charity which funds The Macmillan Unit, said: “We are so grateful for the amazing support from The Village Hotel Bournemouth.

“It is one of many local businesses to have signed up as a Golden Partner for our 50^th Anniversary in 2024.

“Attack for the Mac involved five hours of back-to-back Les Mills Body Attack, which is a high intensity exercise class.

“The event was extremely well attended with many participants attempting and successfully completing the full five hours, raising a total of £2445.35 through their amazing strength and determination.

“The atmosphere was incredible!

“It felt so special to come together to take on such a tough challenge.

“We can’t thank everyone at the leisure club enough for their support, and the inspirational instructors Roxanne Launder, Holly Munroe-Neill, Daniel Scott, Matthew Usher, Charlie Banfield and Steve Williams, who gave up their time to make it happen.”

Roxanne Launder, Leisure Club Manager at Village Gym Bournemouth, said: “It was an incredible event for such a good cause.

“Macmillan Caring Locally is close to the hearts of so many of our members and it was an honour to host.”

During 2024, Macmillan Caring Locally is appealing for local businesses, organisations, groups or clubs to become Golden Partners and join the charity in celebrating its special year, helping to raise awareness and much needed funds.

Neal Williams, Trust Secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally, said: “The Mac Unit has been providing a vital service to the community for 50 years and the support of local people and businesses has, and always will be, key to our work.”

• For more information on how to become a Golden Partner and the benefits available, please email Fundraising Director, Lin Sharp: Lin@macmillanlocal.orgor phone: 01202 477628.

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