Doing it for the kids: James Toseland raises £7000 for children's hospital

A set of leathers worn by double World Superbike champion James Toseland in the 2001 season have raised £1280 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital in an online auction.

The leathers are from Toseland’s stint with GSE Racing Ducati in the WSB championship and were recently worn by the man himself as he led a procession of more than 600 bikers through the Yorkshire city on the hospital’s annual charity Easter Egg run.

The ride took place on Sunday April 17, with each rider asked to pay a minimum donation of £2 on the day. Combined with the leather sales, a grand total of £7000 has been raised for the hospital, which has allowed them to purchase a new high-sided bed at their specialist respite care facility at Ryegate House in the city.

This will have access to ceiling track hoists and oxygen supply, meaning a safe sleeping environment for children with complex neurological needs.

Community Fundraising Officer, Lucy Cain said: “Our young patients love seeing the bikes roar in and the money raised helps ensure the event’s legacy lasts well beyond the Easter weekend, changing lives at Ryegate House long into the future.”

James Toseland is a patron of The Children’s Hospital Charity and has now raised over £75,000 for the cause.