Numerous elves across the region have raised funds for the Poole Hospital Charity.

This year the annual elf dash was held virtually with participants safely running a chosen distance to help fund six vital items and services that will benefit different services and areas around the hospital including the neonatal unit, diabetic children and cancer services.

The clinical management team (CMT) set themselves the challenge to complete a 250-mile ‘dash’ in 12 hours and raised £2,100 towards the £25,000 needed to fund the six items as well as Christmas presents for patients on the wards on Christmas day.

Tania Ball, clinical manager, said, “The elf dash was a fantastic day had by all. There was great team spirit, and everyone worked together to achieve personal and collective goals to raise money to benefit our patients.”

To reach the 250 miles, on-duty staff on the day of the challenge counted their steps at work, took additional walks and used the stairs. Those who were able to get out to participate dressed up in elf costumes and recorded their steps walking around Poole Park and the Sandbanks area.

Among the members of the team to join in was Julia Conroy, outreach team and hospital at night clinical practitioner, who completed 40.12 miles over the 12-hour period, after a night shift.

“I absolutely loved the challenge. I started after my night shift and managed 40.12 miles of both running and walking,” said Julia.

“I was joined at times by my husband and children as well as some of my colleagues which kept me going.

“I wanted to do my bit, as did the whole team, to help Poole Hospital Charity which donates so much for equipment and services throughout the hospital. This year, more than any other, we have had to pull together as a team.”

Sara Fripp, Poole Hospital Charity fundraising manager, said, “We are extremely proud of the CMT and the effort that they have put in to help fundraise to support our elf service.

“On behalf of the charity I would also like to thank all of our participants who have contributed and supported us with this year’s elf dash.”