Hope House fundraiser raises more that £32,000 in Oswestry

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An Oswestry fitness fundraiser was a huge success - raising more than £32,000 for Hope House Children's Hospices.

HOPEROX was the brainchild of Beth Blackburn, who wanted to get people fit and active, while also raising money for a good cause.

The event at the end of November took place at Active8 Gym and saw 120 competitors taking on the hybrid fitness event, which is a combination of strength stations mixed with cardio activity.

Beth said: "It was amazing. I can't get over it. It's been such a whirlwind; I knew it would be a hit, but I couldn't imagine how much.

"I knew we would sell all the tickets, I knew it would be great, but it exceeded everything I ever thought."

Beth said the feedback from those taking part was fantastic.

She continued: "There was electricity in the room. The warmth and strangers cheering on strangers. To show people that that is what our sport is and that's what we want to do for people, it was just brilliant, and then there is the charity aspect as well.

"People came away feeling pleased with themselves that they set out do something, and they did it, and they did it with a smile on their face."

Included in the 120 competitors were around a dozen who had never stepped foot in a gym before, but were keen to get involved.

Competitors taking part in Hoperox (Image: Beth Blackburn)

Competitors taking part in Hoperox (Image: Beth Blackburn)

Competitors taking part in Hoperox (Image: Beth Blackburn)

And in an added boost, tickets and proceeds from the day were tallied up and donated to Hope House and then doubled thanks to a corporate sponsor as the event forms part of the charity's 'Quality Moments Matter' fundraiser, making a total of £32,187.

It made them the fifth highest fundraisers out of 134 teams taking part in the 'Quality Moments Matter.'

Beth, who said they were supported by 34 volunteers and more than 200 spectators cheering people on, added: "I can't get over it.

"This is just the beginning. We are just going to keep going. There will be lots more.

"I knew it would be great, I didn't realise it would be this great for everyone. And I knew it would be great for Hope House and put smiles on people's faces, but for it to mean that much to people it has exceeded all expectations."

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