Easter Egg Appeal at Derry's Leisure Centres launched

Chocolate and fitness rarely go hand-in-hand, but this Easter, Derry's Council is proving they can be the perfect pairing with the launch of their innovative Easter Egg Appeal which is now available at all leisure centres.

Local residents 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, April 15.

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, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, is urging people to consider buying an extra egg in the run up to Easter and help put a smile on a child’s face.

She said: “Buying an extra chocolate egg this Easter is a small gesture which will have a big impact. It will not only put a smile on the face of a sick child or young person who is spending the holiday period in hospital, but it can also help you work on your own fitness by taking part in an extra class at one of our leisure centres.

“Even better if you are gifting someone an egg this Easter why not make a donation on their behalf and gift them the fitness pass along with their chocolate treat. 

“So please, purchase an extra Easter egg this year and help give a treat to a child or young person who is feeling unwell and facing spending Easter in the hospital. They deserve something to smile about, and you can make that happen.”

The appeal begins today and will remain open at Foyle Arena, Templemore Sports Complex, Brooke Park Leisure Centre, the City Baths, Bishops Field, Riverside Leisure Centre, or Derg Valley Leisure Centre. Just drop in an egg to claim your fitness pass. Please note that passes must be used by June 15.