HUNDREDS of pounds have been donated to a hospice after workers have been getting in the Olympic spirit.

A Letchworth GC torchbearer has teamed up with three companies while staff at Gem Estate Management Ltd held an Olympics-themed day – all in aid of the Garden House Hospice in Letchworth GC.

Claire Yeo decided to raise funds for the cause after the hospice cared for her mother prior to her death in May 2009.

The 34-year-old ran with the flame in Pixmore Way during the Olympic Torch Relay in July so decided to share her experience with businesses as a way of supporting the charity.

Beginning with her company Egmont UK, Mrs Yeo offered fellow employees the chance to have their picture with her torch in return for a donation.

On the back of its success, Mrs Yeo’s auntie Tracey Savage suggested bringing the torch into her company LV= and friend Debbie Wallis’ company, Admin Re, both of which support the hospice.

The two Hitchin businesses, alongside Egmont UK, have raised more than �360 for the hospice, which supports those from North Herts and Stevenage with a terminal diagnosis.

Inspired by Stotfold cyclist Victoria Pendleton’s Olympic gold, Gem Estate Management Ltd has also been raising funds.

Staff at the Letchworth GC business, where Pendleton’s father Max is a director, organised their own torch relay, as well as taking part in a series of real and virtual games.

Having raised more than �260 from the day, the company has also formed a team to take part in Garden House Hospice’s Starlight Walk on Saturday, September 8.

Speaking about the fundraising efforts, Garden House Hospice’s community fundraiser Jo Wiffen said: “On behalf of Garden House Hospice I would like to say a huge thank you to Claire for sharing her Olympic experience and helping to raise funds for the hospice in this very special way.

“The Olympics have really encouraged people to ‘get active’ and Gem’s example is a great one to follow. The ladies there can’t join Victoria Pendleton on the Olympic podium, but they can earn their own medals by walking the six or 10 miles through the night in our Starlight Walk. So, come on all you ladies inspired by the Olympics – come and walk for Garden House.”

Registration forms are available from the hospice in Gillison Close, via www.ghhospice.co.uk and by calling 01462 679540.