THROUGHOUT February, a team of keen walkers have been supporting St Mary’s Hospice by completing 9,000 steps a day.

Originating from Grasmere WI, the idea came about after Sue Dixon, President of WI saw the Step for St Mary’s Hospice: January Challenge and believed that Grasmere WI could also help support the local cause.

By involving their friends and family, Team Grasmere have successfully raised £4,500 with a promise of match funding up to £5,000.

Meaning a grand total of £10,000 is well within their reach. While supporting St Mary’s was their main priority, members have also found themselves feeling fitter and more motivated.

Their Facebook support group has allowed them to meet new people and share their stories, photographs and wisdom.

St Mary’s Hospice and Grasmere WI have worked closely together over the past month, resulting in Grasmere WI choosing St Mary’s Hospice as their charity for the year.

Louise Sykes, Grasmere WI member, said: “It has been a brilliant lockdown project. There has been lots of team spirit and we have seen support from family and friends across the UK.

"It has been a pleasure to support St Mary’s Hospice while being able to connect with new people.”

Becky Brown, Area Fundraiser for St Mary's Hospice, said: “We are so pleased with the success of Team Grasmere’s challenge.

"It costs St Mary’s £9,000 a day to care for those who need us and support like this will ensure we can continue to care for our patients and their families. We cannot thank them enough.”

While Grasmere WI are keen to complete more fundraising challenges over the next year, they are meeting regularly on Zoom at 2pm every Thursday to chat and meet new members.

If you would be interested in joining Grasmere WI, please email Louise Sykes clsmailbox@icloud.com for more information or visit their JustGiving page to donate https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/TeamGrasmere