To mark World Physiotherapy Day this week, staff at a local Plymouth hospital took on a special challenge in support of its chosen local charity for 2025 – the Plymouth Argyle Community Trust’s Project 35.
“We are incredibly proud of our team for coming together on World Physio Day to support such a worthwhile cause. We treat hundreds of hip and knee patients every year and its thanks to our physios and clinical experts that many people are able to improve their mobility via physiotherapy or surgical intervention.”
Sarah-Jane Fell, Hospital Director at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Plymouth
Throughout the day, members of Practice Plus Group Hospital, Plymouth’s physiotherapy team were joined by colleagues from the Argyle Community Trust, along with a store assistant, to collectively cycle an impressive 127.4 miles on a static bike. This distance is the equivalent of cycling over 580 laps of the pitch at Plymouth Argyle’s Home Stadium!
The challenge also featured a special guest appearance from Pilgrim Pete, Plymouth Argyle’s much-loved mascot, who cheered on participants and even joined the Admin team for some “office work” during his visit.
Since January, the Plymouth hospital team have been committed to supporting Project 35 through a series of challenges like this cycling event – which raised over £200 – collecting food to stock its foodbank, donating Easter Eggs for an egg hunt and volunteering at the charity’s food bank, as well as bake sales and onsite fundraising. There are plans afoot for further support with events over the coming months to continue their fundraising efforts for the remainder of the year.
Project 35 is Plymouth Argyle’s landmark community initiative, designed to tackle poverty, combat loneliness, and promote healthier lifestyles across Plymouth and the wider community.
Speaking about the event, Hospital Director, Sarah Fell, said: “We are incredibly proud of our team for coming together on World Physio Day to support such a worthwhile cause. Project 35 has a real and lasting impact on our community, and it is fantastic to see so many staff, partners, and even Pilgrim Pete joining in with our on-site challenges to help raise funds and awareness.
“Not only did the challenge raise awareness of the charity, but it also promoted the benefits of gentle, regular exercise to our many joint patients. We treat hundreds of hip and knee patients every year and its thanks to our physios and clinical experts that many people are able to improve their mobility be it via physiotherapy or surgical intervention.”
Practice Plus Group Hospital, Plymouth, celebrated its 20th Anniversary earlier this year after first opening its doors to patients in April 2005. Private patients can book consultations directly with Wellsoon private healthcare from Practice Plus Group, and NHS patients can ask their GP for a referral to the hospital. Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group hip and knee surgery is available from 4-6 weeks of seeing a consultant.
