Winchester fitness community to pull a “night shift” in memory of beloved friend

A 12-hour overnight fitness fundraiser will take place in Winchester this Friday in memory of local resident Verity.

The Night Shift, which will raise important funds for Winchester Hospice, runs from 6pm on Friday 10 October through to 6am on Saturday 11 October at The Nutshell in Kings Walk.

The event is the brainchild of local fitness instructors Emma McCaffrey and Zoë Baker from FitState, who wanted to honour their friend and class member Verity, who died earlier this year and was cared for by Winchester Hospice.

“Losing Verity was heartbreaking, but we wanted to channel that sadness into a celebration of her life, her love of movement, and her community spirit,” said Emma. “A 12-hour fitness marathon, which we've named 'The Night Shift' in honour of her work as a nurse, is the perfect, high-energy way to give back to Winchester Hospice for their exceptional care.”

The marathon event will feature twelve 45-minute fitness classes running back-to-back through the night, from yoga and dance to high-energy circuits. Participants can book as many sessions as they like, with a minimum donation of £10 per class, and are encouraged to seek sponsorship to help raise even more for the hospice.

All proceeds will go to Winchester Hospice, which provides specialist end-of-life care and support for patients and families across the local area.

“Events like this show just how much our community values the hospice and the difference it makes to local families,” said Jo Westerman, fundraising officer at Winchester Hospice. “We’re so grateful to Emma, Zoë, and everyone taking part in The Night Shift for all their support.”

Those wishing to join the challenge or support the fundraiser can register and donate online via the button below.