Watch: Hospice gives dance challenge

The gauntlet has been thrown for others to follow in the footsteps of a Hastings hospice in their take on the viral police Running Man videos.

Yesterday afternoon staff, volunteers and families involved with Cranford Hospice performed their best Running Man moves to raise awareness for their fundraising event next month.

Event manager Nathalie van Dort said the police recruitment video had been their inspiration, but because the video's song was from the 1980s it fitted perfectly with their retro-themed Let's Dance event.

"Our motto is living every moment," she said, "and what better way to live than to dance."

Chief executive Janice Byford-Jones had only been told about the idea on Friday afternoon, but with the help of hospice nurses they were able to get the plan into action yesterday.

Wearing hospice T-shirts, those involved had a quick practice before giving it their all while being cheered on by other staff and patients.

The police video's solo dance was also replicated by registered nurse Marvin Yermo and patient Stu Smith, who receives respite care from the hospice. His wife Kelly and their four children danced alongside hospice staff, with the youngest going for some spins on Mr Smith's wheelchair.

Ms Byford-Jones said they were challenging other hospices around the country to try to beat Cranford's efforts, as well as raising awareness for their event.

All money raised from the Queen's Birthday event will help the hospice care for an estimated 600 patients every year, providing palliative care and a range of other services.

- Don't miss your chance to dance on Saturday, June 4, at Hawke's Bay Opera House Plaza. Tickets for Let's Dance are $50, at Eventfinda or Havelock North and Hastings i-Site.