Tuesday 1st of September 2009
Bingo dream inspires marching pensioners
A team of 80-somethings from Rossendale Hospice in Lancashire arranged a sponsored two-mile walk around nearby Clowbridge Reservoir on Saturday, August 22 2009 to raise money for a bingo games machine, reports the BBC.
The pensioners were cheered on by friends and relatives as they completed the trek assisted by walking frames.
An astonishing total of more than £1,000 was raised for the hospice's bingo game machine fund.
The walkers were led by Brian Whyment, a 66-year-old grandfather of 17 who is battling cancer in his liver, kidneys and bladder.
Tributes flood in for bingo trekkers
His wife Ann thought it was an incredible effort by all concerned.
"He did exceptionally well," she said. "We were all so proud of him, it was one of the best days of our lives. The amount of support he and the others received was immense."
Meanwhile, his friend Jeff paid tribute to Mr Whyment and his quest to bring bingo games to the hospice.
"Everyone knows him and respects him - he is just so wise," he said. "We are so proud of what he has organised."
It is not the only time bingo has been involved in a fundraising venture recently.
Earlier this month, a son set up a bingo game at Otter Nurseries in Devon to support the National Stroke Association.
Matt Wintle decided to help the charity after his mother was left disabled by a severe stroke.
