Boxing legend Johnny Nelson gives his support to Sheffield Hospitals Charity

Johnny is the longest reigning world cruiserweight champion of all time and is well regarded as a legend of the sport but the local lad has never forgotten his roots.

The 53-year-old, who now works for Sky Sports as a boxing pundit, is giving something back to his local community by becoming an ambassador for Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

He said: “I am over the moon to be asked to be an ambassador for Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

“I’ve seen first hand some of the amazing work that they’ve done over the years to support our community, none more so than throughout the pandemic. Our hospitals in Sheffield deserve all the appreciation in the world, and what the charity does to support them is amazing.

“I’m really proud to have been asked, and hope to help drive awareness and fundraising in the coming months.”

The first campaign that Johnny is getting involved with is ‘Bring it on 2021’ which is urging supporters to celebrate the start of the new year, and the end of the old one, by taking part in a 21 themed challenge to help kickstart the year and raise vital funds for the city’s hospitals, staff and patients.

People can run, walk or cycle 21km, they can swim 21 lengths, do 21 days of exercise, do 21,000 steps in one day, or even bake 21 cakes – whatever they feel up to, just as long as it takes place in January of February.

Johnny said: “What better way to start the new year by taking on a challenge like this – it will be great for you, and great for our hospitals as you raise money.

"I would love it if as many people as possible get involved.”

Chief executive for Sheffield Hospitals Charity, Gareth Aston, is delighted to be welcoming Johnny on board.

He said: “Having Johnny Nelson as part of our team is a massive New Year’s boost for all of us. He is a true boxing legend and a true local legend and he will help us drive forward our message and do as much as we can to support our hospitals.

“We are thrilled that Johnny is off to a flying start and involved with ‘Bring it on 2021’. We want to get this year going in the best possible way – especially after the past 12 months. And you can play your part. If you want to get involved, please sign up on our website or email our team at [email protected]”

Everything that the charity does is about improving the treatment of patients in Sheffield and supporting NHS staff to deliver the best quality of care.

It invests more than £2.5million per year into five key areas patient and family support, hospital environments, state of the art equipment, medical research and staff development.

To take part in Sheffield Hospitals Charity’s ‘Bring it on 2021’ challenge, sign up at: https://www.sheffieldhospitalscharity.org.uk/Event/bringiton

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