University students raise more than £1,400 for hospice

The Cynthia Spencer Hospice has received a boost thanks to a group of second-year BA Events Management Students from the University of Northampton who raised £1,421 during a charity dog walk.

The hospice provides specialist palliative care for people living with a life-limiting illness as well as those who care for them across West Northamptonshire.

Walkies for Cynthia at Brixworth Park at the end of April attracted 65 walkers along with their four-legged friends and was organised by Shannon Benwell, Charlotte Bedford and Libby Fall and was an assessed part of their degree.

The group's team leader Charlotte said they had to remain positive despite the April showers and added: "We learned so much from planning and delivering this event which will help us in our future careers.

"We'd like to thank everyone who attended, volunteered, or donated a prize, it is much appreciated by myself and the team. Special thank yous to Michelle from the Hospice for all her support and guidance and to Simon from Go Beyond who kindly supported us with the resources we needed."

Michelle Leighton, Community and Events Fundraiser Lead for the hospice said they were delighted to work with the students and added: "They have raised a fantastic amount for us which makes a massive difference to the type of care we can offer to our patients and their families."

Claire Leer, UON's Senior Lecturer in Events Management and Tourism said she was immensely proud of her students who had develop key event management skill through the process of delivering event and added: "It was so rewarding seeing the months of planning come to fruition.

"I'm very passionate about supporting local charities through our course and it was wonderful working with Michelle who provided valuable coaching and mentoring to the students too.

"Such a lovely event to collaborate on."

For more information visit our webpage on Events, Tourism and Hospitality courses at the university.