Two sisters had bags of energy when they held a 24-hour Zumbathon to raise money for us

Rebecca (27) and Gabby (23) were among several instructors who conducted one-hour classes on a rota basis at Kearsley Methodist Church.

Gabby said: “I came up with the Zumbathon idea while Rebecca and me were out walking the dogs. We organise charity events each year and try to make them bigger and better and St Ann’s is close to our hearts.”

Their auntie Tina Marsden, a rehabilitation assistant practitioner at St Ann’s, was co-organiser and took part with colleagues, including Medical Director Dr Philip Lomax, Clinicial Services Manager Sian Burgess and Day Therapy Unit Manager Olwyn Perkin.

Tina said: “I’d like to thank St Ann’s for their support and allowing me time to help organise the event. My nieces did a great job and a lot of those who took part were from their Zumba classes. Everyone joined in the spirit of the occasion.”

Incredibly, mum-of-two Jenny Shaw, from Clifton, managed to complete the 24 hours, raising £400 for Cancer Research. Family went along to support Jenny, an ecologist for engineering firm Jacobs.

Jenny said: “It was tough mentally and physically so I was pleased when I reached the 8am finish, even though a little sore. I was keen to support St Ann’s by entering and raise money also for Cancer Research. A lot of friends and family, including my dad Les, have been affected by cancer.”  The event was supported by Body Shop.