12-hour Spinathon held to raise funds for Acorns Children's Hospice

The spinathon at the gym at the Village Hotel, in Dudley, was held to raise funds for the charity which has a hospice in in Walsall.

More than 20 people took part in the event which was organised by Mary and Arthur Wilkins, 71 and 75, from Oldbury.

They are yet to count a final sum of the money raised, but Mrs Wilkins said: "The event was amazing, absolutely amazing.

"The support we got from people was great. It was actually overwhelming."

The couple are part of a spin class at the Village Hotel, which Mr Wilkins is particularly keen on.

Other people who participated in the spinathon were also spin class members.

The cash will go towards helping Acorns Children's Hospice stay open, which launched a £2million fundraising launch earlier this year.

Its base in Walsall was under-threat from closure.

Mrs Wilkins says she rode for around three hours on a bike but some people took part for longer periods of time.

One person had a seven hour session.

The event was designed to allow people to hop on and off bikes during the 12 hours.

Some people went on a bike for half hour and came after work to show their moral support.

The cause was close to the couple's heart.

Mrs Wilkins said: "We just heard on the news the plight of Acorns. Obviously we have got grown up children and grandchildren.

"I think it is awful that the charity could be closing. We wanted to do something to help."

She added: "We went away after the spinathon and haven't had chance to count the money properly. But we think the total is about £1,200."

Anyone wishing to help Acorns out can visit www.acorns.org.uk