STAFF at an Altrincham-based firm have raised tens of thousands for Francis House Children’s Hospice after taking on a variety of challenges.

Employees of Aquila Heywood ran marathons and triathlons as part of their fundraising efforts for the Didsbury-based Hospice.

The pension software company’s partnership with the hospice was established five years ago and staff have since raised more than £80,000.

Andy Ross, CEO of Aquila Heywood, said: “Our employees get a great sense of achievement, satisfaction and well-being by being able to give something back through the support of a local charity.

“When Francis House was selected in 2014, the choice proved so popular that we continued our support for five years.”

Two employees, Tim Lovatt and James Gowin, raised £6,700 after running the London Marathon in 2017.

Mr Lovatt said: “I enjoyed the marathon, but it was my first and last.

“Francis House is such an amazing place and having been shown around we felt an incredible connection to it.”

Around 130 staff took part in fundraising activities, which also included a sponsored silence, dress-down days and an office tuck shop.

Emma Rapley, fundraising officer at Francis House, said: “Aquila Heywood have been fantastic and demonstrated such enthusiastic support over the last five years.

“We will be sad to see them go but all good things must come to an end. We are truly grateful to everyone who has supported us.”

Aquila Heywood’s fundraising endeavours were doubly rewarded thanks to match funding, and staff were able to visit the hospice to see the positive impact of their efforts.

Francis House must raise £12,900 per day to provide respite care and support to families across Greater Manchester and Cheshire.

The hospice will hold an Open Day in Didsbury on Saturday 2 November.