THIRTY-THEMED activities helped a building society mark a hospice's anniversary, as well as raising thousands of pounds for charity. 

Employees and members at the Basingstoke branch of Newbury Building Society raised £4,875.89 for St Michael’s Hospice in Basingstoke.

A celebratory event took place in Festival Place Shopping Centre this month, with branch manager Lisa Wedge and customer service adviser Freya-Rose Whatley presenting the hospice with a cheque.

Nicky Young, community engagement lead at St Michael’s Hospice, said: “We are delighted.

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"We would like to thank all their staff and customers for such amazing support, it really means a lot to all our patients and their families who need our care. You have made an incredible difference with your fundraising, thank you.”

The money comes from a year of fundraising activities, including the branch’s 30-themed activities such as cycling or swimming 30km in celebrating the hospice’s 30th birthday.

Some of the funds also came from the society’s charity savings account, which sees members nominate one of nine partner charities to support when saving.

At the end of each year, Newbury Building Society donates to each charity based on the balances.

Lisa said: “The team were so pleased to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice once again this year.

"Everyone really enjoyed getting stuck into the 30 for 30 challenge and tackling personal challenges including cycling, running, walking and swimming – we are already thinking about how we can raise even more for the hospice this year.”

St Michael’s Hospice is a charity that supports and cares for people with a life-limiting illnesses. It covers the Basingstoke and North Hampshire regions.