Yoga class bends over backwards to raise money for charity

Yoga instructor Karen Thursby, who runs Alola Yoga, held her annual two-day charity classes in the grounds of Walworth Castle Hotel, raising £3,308.56 for Cancer Research UK.

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Karen began fundraising for the charity when her beloved mum, Lola, was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in 2017. Though Lola was able to attend the first outdoor yoga event, she died shortly after.

Karen said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come out, join together, enjoy practicing yoga, and raise money for a fantastic cause.

“I want to thank everyone who took part, everyone who supported, and the Walworth Castle team for stepping in at late notice to provide such a fantastic venue, and for making us feel so welcome.”

The event brings the total Karen has raised for Cancer Research UK to more than £16,000.

Walworth Castle agreed to host the annual event after Karen’s plans with a previous venue fell through.

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General manager, Unsal Aydin, said: “We were pleased to welcome Karen and her event to our beautiful grounds. We were delighted her event has been so successful, and overjoyed to see the final figure that has been raised for such a vital charity.”

Lisa Millett, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the North East, said: “We want to say a heartfelt thank you to Karen and everyone that takes part in her events for their commitment to the cause.

"By donating, fundraising, or taking part in an event, supporters across the region can fund new discoveries that will help more people reach the life-changing moment when their doctor says: ‘It’s gone'.”