DOZENS of people laced up their trainers to take part in a two-hour Zumbathon for two causes.

The event was raising money for the UK Sepsis Trust and the Lions’ Club of Tavistock.

One of the Zumba instructors Beth Horton said: ‘I lost my gramps to this terrible illness 18 months ago and felt the time was right now not only to fundraise but to raise the awareness of sepsis, which kills 37,000 people a year.’

Beth’s mum Tracy, also a Zumba instructor, said: ‘My dad, Fred Phillips, was so loved by all of us and was known so well in Tavistock. It was a great way to get everyone involved in the fundraiser. So many local businesses helped out from printing tickets by Dart Print to Slimming World members donating their change and sponsorship money as well as various raffle prizes from local businesses as well. We have to say a big thank you to so many for their help, including Sarah Kitson, whose young son survived the illness and relentlessly got donations and prizes and of course the Wharf, and David Reese, for hosting this event.

‘Family and friends helped out on the day with photos and raffle ticket sales. Half of the proceeds will go to the UK Sepsis Trust and the other half will be donated to the Tavistock Lions’ Club to help fund the new Santa sleigh and presents for local children — a total of over £2,000 was raised!’