Officers press hard in fund-raiser for ill sergeant

THE long arm of the law has literally been pushed to the limit as part of a fundraising challenge to raise money for a hospice that is caring for a terminally ill bobby.
By Adele Forrest
Published 25th Mar 2015, 12:12 BST
Updated 9th Jan 2017, 07:05 BST

A trio of South Yorkshire Police officers took on the challenge of each doing 200 press-ups a day for a month to drum up funds for the Rotherham Hospice.

Sgt Stephen Cooke is being cared for at the hospice and PCs Tim Bell, Craig Britland and Douglas McGraghan took on the challenge to thank hospice staff for their support.

The trio clocked up 6,200 press-ups raising £2,200.

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    Stephen (48), of Swinton, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in November and retired from the force in February.

    In January he was awarded the Police Long Service Medal for his work that included seven years as a patrol sergeant in Rawmarsh before moving to Ecclesfield as a custody sergeant.

    PC Bell (pictured) said: “We decided to raise funds for the hospice in Cookie’s name as he has received exceptional support there.

    “We opted for press ups as it was something a bit different but it was certainly no easy feat.  

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    “The whole point was to do something to highlight the fantastic service the charity provides.”

    Stephen said: “The help and support shown to me by South Yorkshire Police as an organisation and by friends and colleagues within the force has been nothing short of remarkable.

    “The outpouring flowing of genuine love and affection towards me has left both my wife Andrea and I completely stunned and humbled.

    “I have spent quite a lot of time in Rotherham Hospice whilst they tried to sort out my pain and it is true to say that without the hospice and their staff, I am not sure I would still be here.

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    “It is because of them that I feel like I still have a life worth living.

    “The hospice however always needs money so please help raise much-needed funds.”

    Anne Giblin, fundraising team leader for the Rotherham Hospice, said the cash would make a huge difference to the charity.

    She said: “We are delighted that Tim, Douglas and Craig, chose to fundraise for the hospice in such a unique way.

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    “It is quite a feat to complete 200 press ups a day and £2,200 will make a huge difference to patients like Stephen.  

    “We are extremely grateful for this support.”

    Nine members of Sheffield’s Command Team are also preparing to tackle a trio of gruelling assault courses in tribute to the retired sergeant.

    To sponsor the team visit www.justgiving.com/Richard Lambert-6.

    Related topics:South Yorkshire Police