Southowram DJ's virtual event raises £3,000 for Overgate Hospice

Southowram DJ Lee Shaw has raised over £3,000 for Overgate Hospice in Elland by hosting an online 24 hour DJ event

The avid music lover came up with the idea for the event after succumbing to lockdown boredom.

“I was bored one day and I wasn’t able to go out and do the kind of things I usually do, so I got my decks and my vinyl records out to amuse myself.

“I went from that to deciding to do a 24-hour DJ challenge and, once I started it, it all grew very quickly.”

Lee smashed his initial target of £200 and the online event attracted viewers from all over the globe.

“I thought I’d raise about £200 and play a few songs for friends, but at the height of it I had people getting in touch from places like India and Canada, while other people had put the live pictures of me on their TVs and were dancing along to the music.”

Lee has been moved by the wonderful response from the community and has received several positive messages.

“It was brilliant, everyone was so friendly and I must have played every single kind of music there is during the event.

“I was amazed by the donations that were coming in for a cause that I really believe in and which is having a difficult time.”

In order to continue to provide their round-the-clock care, Overgate Hospice needs to find £11,600 every single day.

Lee says that the support of the viewers and the upbeat music made the 24 hours pass quickly, and reignited his love of music.

“I didn’t flag at all during the 24 hours because there was always someone online and their energy kept me going. I love music and I love making people happy by playing music, so I was buzzing at the end of it and really happy that I’ve raised so much just by doing something I enjoy.”

Overgate Hospice are still accepting direct debit, online and telephone donations, and have began to reopen their charity shops.

For more information or to donate to Overgate Hospice, ring 01422 379151.

Alternatively, email them at [email protected].

Are you doing something to help our hospice during these difficult times? Send your stories and photos to [email protected].