Donate
An eight-hour spinathon at Nuffield Health Milngavie has raised an incredible £39,037.55 for Beatson Cancer Charity, after instructors and riders came together in an extraordinary show of support for people affected by cancer.
The event was organised by spin instructors, inspired by colleagues currently receiving treatment, as well as friends, family members and fellow riders who have been supported by Beatson Cancer Charity. What began as a modest fundraising idea quickly grew into something far bigger.
“We thought we might raise £5,000,” said Bill Leckie. “Then it just went bonkers. People didn’t need persuading – they were asking how they could get involved.”
With support from Nuffield Health Milngavie, nearly 40 bikes were brought into the studio, allowing for maximum participation across the day. Riders took part in eight 45-minute classes, led by a team of six instructors: Sheena Armour, Leigh Hay, Bill Leckie, Stevie Barr, Shona Robertson, Barry Shakeshaft. Each session offered a different style and theme to keep energy high and participants engaged.
In addition to individual fundraising by riders, every bike was sponsored by local businesses, raising thousands of pounds before the first class even began. A raffle, food donations, goody bags and refreshments added to the total and helped create a strong sense of community throughout the day.
“It became about far more than fitness,” said Sheena Armour. “People were doing something they love, in a place they feel comfortable, while raising money for a cause that means so much to so many of us.”
Staff at Nuffield Health Milngavie supported the event behind the scenes, coordinating equipment from other clubs and opening a hospitality lounge for participants to rest, refuel and connect.
“The energy never dipped,” said William Barber of Nuffield Health Milngavie. “Even those who rode for all eight sessions were supported and managed properly. Safety and wellbeing always come first, and that’s what made the day work so well.”
The instructors say the response has strengthened bonds within their spin community and created a template for future fundraising, with plans already being discussed to take the event to other clubs and make it a regular fixture.
“For our colleagues, and for everyone who has been supported by Beatson Cancer Charity, this meant a great deal,” added Bill. “Even though we know the need is huge, being able to contribute in this way matters. We’ll keep helping, and we’ll keep going.”
Morag Cunningham, Director of Fundraising at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: “This spinathon is a fantastic example of what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose. The commitment shown by the instructors, riders and everyone at Nuffield Health Milngavie is incredible, and the £39,037.55 raised will help us continue to support patients and families across the west of Scotland when they need us most. We are hugely grateful to everyone involved.”
