Hospice co-founder walks on fire to raise more than £10,000

THE CO-FOUNDER of a children’s hospice is walking on fire, with help from a world record holder.

Fiona Devine, CEO and CoFounder of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, is braving the flames on Saturday, October 9.

She hopes other residents will join her to take on the challenge, and help meet the £10,500 fundraising target.

This would fund just over eight overnight stays at its hospice, providing fun and activities for a child with complex healthcare needs, and giving their parents a break.

Ms Devine said: “I have done all sorts of challenges over the years to help raise the vital funds our charity needs but I have never walked on fire.

“I am a little apprehensive but determined to take on this challenge. It will certainly be my hottest and shortest sponsored walk ever.

“Thank you to everyone that is supporting me. It means so much to me and the children and families that we support, especially at a time when fundraising income continues to be impacted.”

Kate Wright, fundraiser at the hospice, said: “Throughout this year, it has been inspiring to see different members of our Alexander Devine team take on a variety of challenges.

“When we asked if anyone would be prepared to walk over hot coals for the hospice, Fiona was first to sign up.”

Ms Wright said 14 others have signed up so far.

“The great thing about the firewalk is that no training beforehand is necessary,” she added.

“With spectators welcome on the day to support the challengers, it should be a really fun evening.”

On the evening, all adults participating will receive full training from Scott Bell, who has twice held the Guinness World

Record for the greatest distance walked on fire.

It costs £25 to take part.

This includes the training seminar with Mr Bell, an Alexander Devine t-shirt, a UK Firewalk certificate of completion and a bespoke medal.

Alexander Devine is asking participants to try and raise a minimum of £150 per person.

The fire walking will begin from 5pm. n For more information, or to sign up, visit: www.alexanderdevine.org/ firewalk n To sponsor Ms Devine, visit: alexanderdevine.enthuse.com/pf/fiona-devine-05833