Spelthorne Parkies Spinathon raises over £2,500

Members of the local community came together at Eclipse Leisure Centre to cycle over 2,000 miles in a Spinathon, raising funds for Spelthorne Parkies Support Group to help people living with Parkinson’s. 

In its second year, the event took place over 12 hours on Wednesday 28 January, with over 120 people taking part in the charity Spinathon including members of the support group and their family as well as Places Leisure members and local partners. 

Places Leisure which operates and manages Eclipse Leisure Centre on behalf Spelthorne Borough Council, support local people living with Parkinson’s, including Exercise Referral patients.  

Currently the centre has around 40 people participating in their Move and Shout classes – a 12-week programme of tailored sessions to help more people living with Parkinson’s to get active and live well with the condition as well as other activities. Places Leisure and the Spelthorne Parkies Support Group work closely to share their activities and support to ensure people get the help they need. 

The money raised from the event will allow the Spelthorne Parkies Support Group to fund local Parkinson’s exercise classes, wellbeing sessions, educational workshops and direct support for members who need equipment or transport assistance.  

The group which began in 2016 currently has over 120 members, including Steve who joined shortly after his diagnosis. He described feeling “lost and frightened” before attending his first session. Within weeks, he found confidence, friendship, and a sense of belonging. He now helps welcome new members and says the group “gave me my life back.” 

After cycling many miles at the Spinathon event, Belinda Steward, Managing Director of Places Leisure, said: “When I heard about this event taking place at Eclipse Leisure Centre, knowing of all the positive work the Spelthorne Parkies Support Group do, I knew I had to get involved and do my part. This event is helping to support a cause which is close to my heart, so many people are affected by Parkinson’s and the difference these groups can make are life changing.” 

Cllr Joanne Sexton, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, said: “Being part of today’s event was truly special. It was wonderful to see people come together with such kindness, compassion and genuine care for one another in support of an important cause. The Spelthorne Parkies Support Group is more than a service, it is a lifeline for residents living with Parkinson’s and for their families, offering comfort, strength and hope. Seeing local partners, volunteers and residents stand side by side was truly heart-warming and a powerful reminder of the strength of our community.” 

Jason Lane, Group Coordinator of the Spelthorne Parkies Support Group, said: “This event isn’t just about raising funds — it’s about raising hope. Parkinson’s can be a lonely journey, but when our community comes together, no one walks it alone. Every donation, every conversation, every show of support helps us continue the vital work of keeping people connected, active, and empowered. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who stands with us.” 

To donate to Spelthorne Parkies Support Group visit their Go Fund Me page - https://gofund.me/52726db1f  

To find out more about the support group and how you can access help, visit – www.spelthorneparkies.co.uk