In these wet and cold early months of the year we all need an impetus to become fit.

And so former Olympic and Commonwealth long-distance runner Liz Yelling is hoping people will take part in a new fitness fundraising initiative from Forest Holme Hospice Charity in Poole. 

Get Fit For Forest Holme aims to improve people’s physical and mental health, especially during lockdown, whilst raising money to enhance the care and support services provided by the local NHS hospice. Participants can set their own challenge and fundraising target, according to ability and fitness levels, at a time that suits.

Liz, who won the bronze medal in the 2006 Commonwealth Games marathon and lives in Poole, is encouraging people to get involved, whether it is running, walking, skipping, hopping, skating cycling and swimming or doing an online workout.

Liz, said, “I am thrilled to be supporting this fantastic fundraising challenge for such a brilliant local charity. It is so important to boost both our physical and mental health, especially during such difficult times, so if we can all do a bit of exercise, no matter how big or small, and raise money to support our local NHS hospice then it’s a win win.”

Paul Tucker, fundraising and communications manager at Forest Holme, said, “Forest Holme Hospice Charity is expecting a funding deficit of £350,000 due to the impact of coronavirus. We know a lot of people have struggled mentally and physically since the start of the pandemic, so we want to get our local community active to improve everyone’s physical and mental health and help the charity at the same time.

“People could challenge themselves to run 5K each week for a month, cycle the distance of a marathon in a week, or just do something as simple as taking the dog for a walk each day. We would love to see families sign-up and everyone who takes part will receive a very special Get Fit For Forest Holme medal. As an extra little incentive if anyone raises over £500, they will also get a special Forest Holme hoodie.”

Entry is free and to register visit www.forestholmehospice.org.uk/fitforforest You can also get in touch by emailing charlie.james@forestholmehospice.org.uk.