Therapists pedal through the night for new equipment
![Two members of hospital staff dressed in sponsored T-shirt pedalling on exercise bikes in a corridor at Leighton Hospital](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/1536/cpsprodpb/c54d/live/31477aa0-3fa0-11ef-ac18-e9e918866dc8.jpg)
Senior physiotherapist Gemma Boyce (left) and therapy assistant Louise White were the first ones in the saddle
- Published
A team of physiotherapists and occupational therapists are into the final pedalling hours of a 24-hour charity cycle challenge inside a hospital.
Sixteen cyclists have powered through the night in a bid to raise £5,000 for exercise equipment to assist the rehabilitation of patients recovering from strokes and those with limited mobility.
The first riders began pedalling in the corridor of Leighton Hospital in Crewe at 10:00 BST on Thursday, cheered on by staff and patients.
Maisie Farrell, who has spent six weeks recovering from her stroke, and said: “King Charles himself could not have received better care.”
Listen on Sounds: Ready, steady, GO! Hear the Leighton hospital staff set off on their ambitious challenge
The riders had an overnight rota for the challenge with occupational therapist, Louise White, being the first to take part.
“I just thought it’d be a really fun and interactive way of doing something to raise some extra money,” huffed Mrs White whilst cycling.
The team had the full support from the head of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity (MCH), Emma Robertson, who cheered them on through the opening stages.
“To put in this extra effort, take time out of their busy lives to go over and above for their patients, is just amazing,” said Mrs Robertson.
Maisie Farrell has regained movement in her left arm and the ability to walk during her stay at Leighton
Outpatient Maisie Farrell was tearful as she wished the staff the best of luck.
“I want to thank everybody. This team are wonderful,” she said.