The efforts of a group of prison staff and inmates have helped to raise more than £2,000 for an Isle of Man charity.
Participants tackled the Millennium Way in April, walking 26 miles from the gates of Castle Rushen to Sky Hill near Ramsey in support of Manx Cancer Help.
A total of 16 people, including six prison officers and five inmates, completed the challenge, which was co-ordinated and led by Senior Officer Mike Pacey and PEI Andy Morrison.
A cheque for £2,050 was recently presented to Andrea Chambers, CEO of Manx Cancer Help and Ally Martin, Fundraising Events Coordinator. Ally, together with a volunteer from the charity, took part in the sponsored walk.
Established in 1983, Manx Cancer Help provides specialist psychological and emotional support to anyone whose life has been affected by a cancer diagnosis. Based at the Lisa Lowe Centre, the charity is completely self-funded, achieved through events, donations and collaborations with local businesses and individuals.
SO Mike Pacey said:
'We completed the 26 miles in just over eight hours, which was a good effort considering we took the more difficult route – it is all uphill after Crosby. I'd like to thank everybody who took part, including the support crew. Manx Cancer Help does a tremendous job to help those affected by cancer in the Isle of Man. Hopefully our efforts will raise awareness as well as some much needed funds for a very worthwhile and vital charity.'
Members of staff completed the walk in their own time and were joined by trusted inmates, some of whom are engaged in work projects in the community, members of the PrisonWorks charity and guests. The money was raised by the participants and their families.
Ally Martin of Manx Cancer Help said:
'We are extremely grateful to the staff at the Isle of Man prison for organising this event and to all those who took part. It was a wonderful effort and the money raised will help to support the important service we provide in the Isle of Man.'
Michael Coleman MLC, Member of the Department of Home Affairs with responsibility for the Prison and Probation Service, added:
'Staff at the prison often give up their own free time to help others. It is also good to see prisoners making a positive contribution to the local community through their charitable endeavours. This type of activity forms a small but important part of much wider efforts to help rehabilitate offenders.'
