National Superhero Day is fast approaching and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Charity wants children and adults to unleash theirs to change lives by supporting its Children’s Appeal.

On Thursday, 28th April, the charity is encouraging the public to dress as a superhero to help raise £1 million to buy a range of equipment that will help make the children’s in and out-patients at both Royal Preston and Chorley and South Ribble Hospitals a more comfortable for young patients and their parents and carers.

Children’s Appeal fundraiser Lucy Clark said: “Back in 1995, employees at Marvel Comics, which had brought the world Spiderman, Wolverine, Captain America, Iron Man and Hulk among others, launched National Superhero Day.

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“They realised the positive influence their characters had on fans in terms of encouraging them to care about their neighbours and others in their community.

“They held the first National Superhero Day, coming to work in various Marvel hero costumes, to honour those who serve and protect the public.

“It’s now a worldwide annual event and for the first time, we at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Charity are embracing it as a fun way to encourage support for our Children’s Appeal.”

“You could be sponsored for being brave enough to go out that day dressed as Spiderman or Wonder Woman. If that’s too much, you could dress up for the challenge of a run or cycle.

“Not all superheroes wear Lycra so you could opt for a police, firefighter or nurse outfit or even just make a donation in the name of a person who’s a hero to you such as your mum, dad, nan, big brother or teacher.

“Don’t forget to give them a note though to let them know what you’ve done because of how special they are.”

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The charity team’s Children’s Appeal launched last May and has to date raised £108,081, some of which has been spent on portable gaming carts and sensory play equipment, TVs and family-friendly wayfinding signage.

Work is also starting on a new outdoor play assessment area at Broadoaks Child Development Centre, Leyland.

To register for National Superhero Day, watch a video explaining the Children’s Appeal or make a donation, go to https://lthcharity.org.uk/childrensappeal/

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