Your Harrogate Radio

10:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Jimmy Somerville & June Miles Kingston

Comment Te Dire Adieu

Listen Live

'Yogathon' to fundraise for Harrogate man after skiing accident

Wednesday, 3 July 2024 09:52

Chris Burford was involved in a skiing accident in January.

A unique 'yogathon' fundraising event is being held this weekend in support of a Harrogate man who suffered an accident whilst skiing.

Father and husband Chris Burford fractured his C5/C6 vertebrae in January, resulting in an incomplete injury to his spinal cord.

Unfortunately this has seen Chris lose the use of his legs, hands and fingers and he only has partial movement in his arms.

But thanks to the support of medical teams at The University Hospital in Innsbruck, he is now stable and working on his physical rehabilitation.

And to support his journey back to health, Chris’ family are hosting a ‘Yogathon’ event at Yorkshire Centre for Wellbeing on Saturday (6th July) from 8am until 8pm.

It will be a full day of Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Children’s Yoga and Sound Bath.

Chris’ daughter Joelle said:

“From what we understand about neuroplasticity, there is an initial window for rehabilitation to take place in order to stand the best chance of regaining any lost or damaged movement.

“With the cost of ongoing care for dad currently unknown, we would love to raise some money to pay for dad to take part in a series of the MOTION rehab Intensive Rehabilitation Programmes.”

MOTION rehab is a multi-disciplinary neurological rehabilitation company based in Yorkshire and founded on the principle of neuroplasticity.

They provide hands-on therapy, neurological rehabilitation technology (via robotics and virtual reality) and exercise.

Joelle added:

“If by any chance we exceed our target, all funds will go towards dad's ongoing rehabilitation including; further sessions and programmes with MOTION rehab and any other equipment dad needs - for example a more sophisticated wheelchair to help him live with as much independence as possible.”

The Yogathon will be held at Yorkshire Centre for Wellbeing on Saturday (6th July) from 8am until 8pm.

To support the fundraising campaign and help it reach its £20,000 goal, donate online here.

More from Local News

Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards

Finalists have been announced for the Knaresborough Business Awards 2026 ahead of a ceremony later this year.
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour

A Harrogate woman is walking 200 kilometres this month to raise money for brain tumour research in memory of her father.
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers

Harrogate has been identified as one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing locations for Land Rover interest, according to new audience data from Land Rover Monthly.
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities

The annual Big Harrogate Sleepout is set to return for a third year in support of two local charities.
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards

Harrogate-based Phase 4 Computers has been shortlisted in six categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for new powers to close cowboy vendors and restrict illicit vape shops on the high street.
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague

In memory of a late colleague, staff from Harrogate family law firm Jones Myers have donated vital equipment to help enhance the wellbeing and comfort of cancer patients.
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards return this week to shine a light on the selfless, dedicated and inspirational people across the Harrogate district.
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon

Police are appealing for information in relation to a public order that occurred in Ripon city centre.
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows

Over half (54%) of people in Yorkshire oppose the Government's proposed holiday tax, according to a major new poll.
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle

Harrogate horticultural charity Horticap is going even greener after securing sponsorship for a new electric van from developer the Banks Group.
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise

Harrogate-based IT provider Techbuyer has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district

A new partnership programme designed to support men's mental health across Harrogate district has secured funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough Castle repairs finally set to get underway

Reparation and restoration works are finally set to get underway at Knaresborough Castle, according to a local councillor.
Opening date delayed for new-look Furlong and Furrow

The opening of the newly rebranded Furlong and Furrow near Ripon has been delayed by an extra week.
Boutique women's fashion brand opens new Harrogate store

A boutique women’s fashion brand has opened its doors in Harrogate town centre.
Football stars visit Harrogate school to inspire next generation

Two international football stars have shared a first-hand insight into their successful football journeys with pupils at a Harrogate school.
New café opens on Cold Bath Road

A brand new café has opened on Cold Bath Road in Harrogate.
Harrogate student to run length of Britain after losing father to brain cancer

A student from Harrogate is preparing to run the length of Britain, raising vital funds for a charity working to find a cure for the brain cancer that killed his father.
Knaresborough Town Women win West Riding League Cup

Knaresborough Town Women sealed a memorable cup win after winning the West Riding League Cup in dramatic fashion.