A 75-year-old man is leading a 12hour spin class to raise funds for the Bristol Heart Institute (BHI).

Following a heart attack in 2009, John Griffin has had a number of procedures and treatments at the BHI.

Now he is aiming to raise £10,000 for the BHI Appeal to say thank you to the staff who have taken care of him.

He said: “I am raising money for the BHI and Above & Beyond very simply because the cardiologists, their teams and all the support staff have kept me alive and able to enjoy an active life.

“Treatment has been excellent. The staff have been dedicated, committed, focused and considerate. They take great pride in their work.”

The 75-year-old, who is a qualified spinning instructor, will lead the class of participants for the majority of the 12 hour session.

The challenge will take place on 29 September, World Heart Day, at theclub at Cadbury House in Congresbury.

Spinning bikes are available to hire to join in the class. The cost is £10 for anything from one hour up to the full 12 h
ours.

All participants will be entered into a raffle, with prizes including dinner for two at the Marco Pierre-White restaurant at the hotel, dinner for two at Bardolino restaurant in the club and personal trainer sessions.

Lydia McGivern, community fundraising officer for Above & Beyond, said: “John has set himself a big challenge, but he is so full of energy and enthusiasm that I’m sure he will smash it.

“He has managed to get some amazing prizes for the raffle which will hopefully motivate people to hire a bike and join in!”

Participants who reach £100 sponsorship will also receive an Above & Beyond t-shirt.

Anyone interested in joining the spinning challenge can contact Lydia on [email protected].

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