VIDEO: Harrogate charities set to benefit from ice bucket challenge

Thousands of people have been drenching themselves in freezing cold water and posting the video online in a fundraising stunt called the ice bucket challenge.

Now Harrogate charties look set to benefit from the craze as the trend spreads across the UK.

Nikki Brady, senior PR officer for Yorkshire Cancer Research based on East Parade, said: “Just like the no make-up selfie, the ice bucket challenge has taken the world by storm and shown once again how generous the public can be.

“After a supporter took on the challenge for Yorkshire Cancer Research, we decided to join in the fun and encourage others to get involved. The ice bucket challenge phenomenon is a brilliant opportunity for local people to raise vital funds and awareness for their charity of choice.”

She added: “We nominated Britain’s Got Talent stars Richard and Adam, who are performing at a concert for us in Harrogate in September, Prince William and Mark Cavendish – however we are yet to see any of them complete the challenge!”

The stunt started in the states to raise awareness of ALS or Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

A spokesperson for Saint Michael’s Hospice on Hornbeam Park said: “We help many families each year affected by MND and actually employ the area’s first and only MND comunity specialist.

“It’s cold, it’s fun and it’s taking the world by storm. Get involved in the ice bucket challenge and raise money for Saint Michael’s while you are at it.”

Staff at CNG on Victoria Avenue where among the first to get drenched for Saint Michael’s Hospice.

Chris Henderson took part in the challenge and said : ‘It was really exciting to be nominated by Saint Michael’s – we have such a great relationship with Saint Michael’s so couldn’t wait to get involved. I really hope the community get behind this and keep it going as long as possible.

“I was absolutely freezing – but I have seen the amazing work Saint Michael’s do and I know it was well worth the moment of iced water over my head.”

Jacqui Hall, managing director of CNG said: “Everyone knows CNG loves to roll its sleeves up and as ever some of our daring lot stepped up for the Ice Bucket Challenge.

“I am so proud of our boys and hope it inspires people to donate to charity.”

Text YORKSHIRE to 70007 to donate £3 to Yorkshire Cancer Research or text COLD14 followed by an amount (such as £5) to 70070 to donate to Saint Michael’s Hospice.

Tweet @HarrogateHound with your #icebucketchallenge videos.