A community group which raised £58,411.57 for a local hospice has been commended for its inspiring efforts.

ConnectUK had set itself a target of raising £10,000 for the East Lancashire Hospice but smashed that figure. It was a monumental effort by a group of volunteers of all ages.

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On behalf of the group Councillor Salim Sidat MBE said: “As chair of the group it has given me immense pleasure to lead such a brilliant talented inspired group of people.

“We have learnt the hospice is more about the quality of life than it is about death. We wanted to make sure we gave people a good quality of life.

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“I thank each and every member for the contributions they have given in time and effort. I thank everyone who has donated to our cause.

“We set ourselves a target of £10,000 but to raise £58,411.57 is a fantastic achievement.”
The money was raised through a series of events, fun days and sponsored walks.

Cllr Sidat added: “Our team have been on an incredible rollercoaster journey, lots of hard work, plenty of fun and emotions.

“I would like to thank everyone involved with ConnectUK from the bottom of my heart for any contribution they have made.

“ConnectUK are dedicated in working with local charities that will help local people.
“ConnectUK will continue to fund raise for East Lancashire Hospice as their cause has become personal to every member of our group.

“According to the media we are a divided nation. What we have found in Blackburn is that no matter what colour, creed or religion you come from when it comes to charity we all stand ‘united’. As our logo says ,’What Unites us is greater than what divides us”.

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Sharon Crymble, fundraising manager at the East Lancashire Hospice, said: “I cannot put into words how much this means and seeing their dedication and commitment over the last 15 months has been unbelievable. It’s not only about the money raised, they have also created more awareness about the care the hospice provide.”

“I have seen myself how many more people are using the service that makes such a huge difference when it is needed.”