A symbolic baton travelling the length of the UK has arrived in Hull, marking the start of a week of fundraising activities to support people affected by vascular disease.
The Hull vascular team has been selected to host the Circulation Foundation Relay from today (17 July) until 26 July, joining centres across Scotland, Wales and England taking part in a unique fundraising challenge. The relay began in Dundee and is making its way through vascular units across the country before finishing at the Vascular Society Annual Scientific Meeting in Liverpool.
Staff will take part in a 5k fundraising run at East Park tomorrow (Saturday 18 July) and host a bake sale in the Hull Royal Infirmary foyer on Wednesday (22 July). Donations raised will support the Circulation Foundation, the charitable arm of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Misha Sidapra, from the Hull vascular team, said: “When we heard the baton was coming to Hull, we knew we wanted to get involved. It’s a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of vascular disease, while having some fun and bringing people together for a really worthwhile cause.
“Every centre has chosen its own way of supporting the relay, and we’re hoping our bake sale and 5k run will encourage colleagues, patients and visitors to get behind the charity. Every donation, no matter how small, helps make a difference.”
Sean Pymer, an academic clinical exercise physiologist who is co-ordinating the relay nationally, said: “The Circulation Foundation provides vital support for people living with vascular disease and produces many of the patient information resources used across the UK.
“This relay is about much more than passing a baton. It’s about connecting vascular teams across the country, raising awareness of vascular health and generating funds that will help us continue supporting patients and their families. The response from centres has been incredible.” The Hull bake sale will take place from 10am to 4pm on 22 July in the Hull Royal Infirmary foyer, with all proceeds and online donations going to the Circulation Foundation. You can also donate to the cause online.