Castle Court Team Smashes Fundraising Target
Staff, retailers and friends of Castle Court Shopping Centre have completed an epic virtual journey around Wales, collectively travelling more than 1,115 miles and raising twice their original fundraising target for the Wales Air Ambulance.
More than 20 participants took part in the month-long Castle Conquest Challenge, pledging to run, walk, cycle or roll at least a mile every day throughout July.
By the time they crossed the finish line, the team had clocked up an impressive 1,115 miles, virtually passing 74 Welsh castles and raising £1,001 for the lifesaving charity during its 25th anniversary year.
Beginning outside Castle Court's home opposite the mighty Caerphilly Castle, the challenge took participants on a virtual journey the length and breadth of Wales, passing famous landmarks including Chepstow, Conwy, Caernarfon, Harlech, Pembroke and Cardiff castles, before completing an extraordinary nationwide tour celebrating Wales' rich history and heritage.
The challenge not only exceeded its original target of 620 miles but also comfortably surpassed its fundraising goal of £500.
Castle Court Centre Manager Hannah Clark said the response from everyone involved had been incredible.
“We set ourselves what we thought was an ambitious challenge, but the enthusiasm shown by colleagues, retailers and friends of Castle Court completely exceeded our expectations.
“To finish with more than 1,115 miles completed and over £1,000 raised for Wales Air Ambulance is something everyone involved should be incredibly proud of.
“The virtual castle journey gave everyone a shared goal and made every mile feel like another step around Wales. More importantly, every mile has helped support a charity that provides an essential lifesaving service to communities across the country.
“It's also been wonderful to see the positive impact the challenge has had on people's own wellbeing.
“Spending time outdoors, encouraging one another and working together towards a common goal has created a real sense of team spirit, and some participants have even decided to continue walking or exercising at least a mile every day,” she added.
The Wales Air Ambulance is the only air ambulance charity dedicated solely to Wales, delivering advanced critical care across the country 24 hours a day.
Entirely funded by public donations, it must raise around £13 million each year to keep its helicopters flying and rapid response vehicles on the road.
Christian Sullivan, Wales Air Ambulance Regional Fundraising Manager said: “We are hugely grateful to Castle Court’s Shopping Centre team for raising just over £1,000 for our lifesaving service.
“It's fantastic news to hear how much the team enjoyed the challenge and especially that it has inspired some colleagues to continue moving a mile or more each day. They have collectively travelled 1,115 miles.
“Please pass on our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to everyone involved.”
The Castle Conquest Challenge formed part of the charity's 25th anniversary celebrations and highlighted both the importance of supporting vital emergency services and the benefits of staying active while bringing the local community together.
