Hospital set for big boost after charity walk

Families walked 5k or 10k for Portsmouth Hospitals Charity’s Ward Walk, held at Staunton Country Park yesterday.

The event cost £2 per person to join, with a suggested minimum sponsorship of £15.

People were encouraged to fundraise for a ward or department in Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust, or to raise cash for the Rocky Appeal, which is paying for the state-of-the art surgery Da Vinci robot.

Philippa Cowen, fundraising apprentice, said: ‘Everyone was hyped up and really positive and happy.

‘Everyone was there doing it for a good cause, giving up
their time and money for something that’s very close to their hearts.

‘A lot of the people had struggled with illnesses themselves, so it’s very personal. But there was a lot of fun.’

Last year the event raised around £10,000 for the charity, with hopes the figure will be that high again.

Other events planned for the charity this summer include the Summer Fayre, raising money for the paediatric unit.

It will be held at Queen Alexandra Hospital, in Cosham, on Saturday, July 16 between 12pm and 4pm.