Derry Easter Egg Appeal to help brighten a child's day

PICTURED ABOVE: Mayor  of Derry and Strabane, Cllr Patricia Logue, pictured with Jennifer Rouse, Ward 6, Children's Ward, Altnagelvin Hospital, at the launch of the Easter Egg Swap. Included are the Easter Bunny, Kevin Curley, Leisure Centre staff, and Steve Setterfield, Leisure area manager, Derry City & Strabane District Council. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)

Ever wondered how chocolate could actually improve your fitness? Well Council has the answer with the launch of this year's Easter Egg Appeal, now being rolled out across Council Leisure Centres.

Customers are being asked to swap Easter Eggs for fitness class passes, and the eggs will then be donated to the Children's Ward at Altnagelvin Hospital. Donations must be made before Tuesday, 26th March.

You don’t even need to be a gym member, the pass you receive can be used by yourself or given to a friend or family member and can be used in any fitness class at any Council owned centre.

Launching the campaign, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Patricia Logue, today encouraged people to think of buying an extra egg and brightening up someone’s day. "The Easter Egg Appeal offers the opportunity to make someone's day with a small gesture that only costs a few pounds.

"Lots of brave children and young people are in hospital over the Easter holidays for all sorts of treatments, and they deserve a special treat.

"I would really appeal to everyone when they are doing their shop to consider adding an extra egg, and put a smile on a child's face this Easter."

The appeal begins today and will remain open at Foyle Arena, Templemore Sports Complex, Brooke Park Leisure Centre, the City Baths, Melvin Sports Complex, or Derg Valley Leisure Centre. Just drop in an egg to claim your fitness pass. Please note that passes must be used by May 31st.