An inclusive charity event masterminded by a Verwood care home saw the mayor walk beside residents and their loved ones in aid of a local hospital.
Mayor Councillor Simon Gibson was invited by the team at Verwood House Care Home on Ringwood Road to join their fundraising efforts for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity on Friday 31 July.
Participants – including relatives and care colleagues pushing residents in wheelchairs – met at Verwood Memorial Recreation Ground where they did as many laps of the park as they could manage.
Home Ambassador Alicia Bartlett said everyone did a fantastic job and helped contribute to the fundraising total, which currently sits at more than £250.
Alicia said: “It was so inspiring to see people of all abilities coming together to walk for charity.
“We wanted to make sure it was inclusive for all, especially the residents who wanted to do their bit for the hospital fundraiser. It was an honour to hand out medals to all the fantastic participants and to see such great community spirit in action.”
Verwood House Care Home laid on refreshments for everyone taking part, as well as handing out medals as people finished their walks.
Councillor Gibson and visitors from the Verwood Connect Day Centre were among those who took part.
Resident Marjorie Pickup, aged 89, said: “I like walking, and it was nice to raise money for charity by doing so.”
Fellow resident Geoffrey Harding, aged 93, added: “Supporting charities is very important and I am glad I was able to be part of the walk.”
