Liz boxes clever to raise cash for Beechwood
AN ACCOUNTANT really packed a punch with her fundraising efforts – by climbing into the boxing ring.
Liz Ridley, 26, who works at Hallidays in Stockport town centre, took part in a pink collar boxing bout – a charity match organised for women.
She raised £400 for Beechwood Cancer Care Centre as the Bridgehall charity has been chosen by Hallidays as the one it will support this year.
Liz fought under the name of the ‘Pouting Punisher’ and the money raised will go towards an appeal Beechwood has set up to raise £100,000 to mark its 25th anniversary.
She said: “This is something I haven’t done before so it was a great challenge. Big thanks to those who sponsored me and bought tickets to raise money for such a great charity.”
Liz trained for more than 40 hours ahead of the bout with a schedule spread out over eight weeks.
This was done under the watchful eye of trainers Darren Craven, from the Primal Academy, Stockport boxer and Nations Cup gold medallist Stacey Copeland and Anthony Brown, from Elite Performance Fitness.
Liz then fought in an event at Bowlers in Trafford, drawing with rival Becky Hill in front of 150 people.
Darren said: “It was a delight to train and educate Liz. I was very proud of her and what she did in the ring. Win, lose or draw you should always see her as a winner.”
Liz, from Stretford, was part of a team from Hallidays who trekked the Great Wall of China 2013 to raise money for Seashell Trust - that year’s chose charity.
Nigel Bennett, managing director at Hallidays, said: “Liz’s commitment and bravery has raised some much needed funds for Beechwood.”
This year Beechwood, based on Chelford Grove, is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
And to mark the occasion the charity, in conjunction with the Stockport Express, has set up the Silver Wing Appeal.
It seeks to raise £100,000 to enhance the patient experience there as well as extend community facilities including a new cafe and charity shop.
Angela Gray, from Beechwood, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as charity of the year for Hallidays and Liz did a fantastic job, we certainly won’t be arguing with her.”
Anyone wishing to help can ring 476 0384 or email fundraising@beechwoodcancercare.co.uk.