24-hour badminton marathon raises funds for local cancer charity

Morpeth Badminton Club, based at the new Morpeth Sports & Leisure Centre, has raised a fantastic £5,900 for a local charity by taking part in a marathon 24-hour badminton session.

Over 100 members ranging from 8 years of age to 75 years of age, including some from other clubs, took part in the event. Every penny raised has been donated to 4Q Cancer who have pledged to raise money for Daft as a Brush.

In a slightly different format this year, due to the new venue, the teams played badminton from 7am -7pm both days.

This is the eleventh Badminton-a-thon that Karen Davison, the Leisure Centre’s Badminton Coach, has organised with the club raising over £33,000 for local charities over that time.

She said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of all those who helped us to raise this amazing sum of money. Every single penny will go to the chosen charity.

“I’d like to thank everyone who contributed, including all the help from Active Northumberland staff. Players from other areas, clubs and families came together to join us in raising money and have fun. We had lots of bakers on hand who made some delicious homemade cakes for us to sell on our cake stall and a small tombola. Together we are making a difference. “

Karen runs badminton sessions throughout the week at the new Morpeth Sports & Leisure Centre which cater for all ages and standards from complete beginners through to county players and Over 50s. New members are always very welcome and for those who want more competitive play, they have 2 mixed, 3 men's and 1 ladies team who play in the Northumberland Badminton Association Leagues.

“We are a thriving club with a great pathway for young players to progress and advance to county level, should they wish to compete. Lots of people do just come to play for fun as badminton is a great form of exercise and very sociable too.” added Karen

To find out more call in at Morpeth Sports & Leisure Centre or ring 01670 620200.