News and Press Releases
5/7/2010
Addiewell 'weightathon'
Prisoners and staff at HMP Addiewell, West Lothian, have raised over £4,000 for a local GP practice by taking part in a challenge to lift a combined weight of one million kilograms.
The 'weightathon' took place to raise funds for the Calderwood Practice in East Kilbride. The prison's gymnasium saw 20 prisoners, three gym staff and a doctor from The Calderwood Practice, lift at least 45,000 kilograms by completing 30 sets of bench presses, lifts and squats.
The money raised will be used to buy palliative care equipment for the practice's patients, including nebulisers which help those with breathing difficulties.
The fundraiser was thought up by Yvonne McCabe, a visiting committee member and Calderwood Practice patient.
Marc McKenzie, Addiewell gym instructor, organised the event by encouraging prisoners and colleagues to take part. They all undertook a tough training schedule before completing the event.
Yvonne said: “The event was one of the best I have ever had the privilege of being a part of. The task of lifting one million kilos in one day, I believe I will never see again. The event asked a lot from the prisoners, staff and doctor who took part, but was embraced with such a high level of determination and enthusiasm that made me burst with pride at the selfless attitudes of everyone there.
“The event allowed me to see the men working as one, with a team spirit which was second to none. I would like to thank the prison and staff for arranging this event and inviting me to witness it unfold. An enormous thank you also goes to the prisoners who made me extremely proud and who raised so much for an excellent cause.”
Audrey Park, Kalyx director at Addiewell said: “It was great to see everyone working together for such a great cause. We encourage prisoners to take part in events like this as they can play an important part in the rehabilitation process. They worked together very well as a team and the £4,000 raised is a fantastic result.”
