Stars from Channel 4’s Hollyoaks were in Liverpool One this weekend, fundraising for Freshfields Animal Rescue Centre.
Taking a break from filming in Childwall, actors Daisy Wood-Davies and Luke Jerdy, better known as Kim Butterfield and Jesse Donovan, got in the saddle for a charity bicycle ride.
They were among the cast members competing for Team Hollyoaks against Team Freshfields in a 120-mile bike challenge – the distance between the Liverpool and Caernarfon animal rescue centres.
This Saturday was the first challenge of a busy 12 months for Freshfields, who are hoping for more teams to come forward to create a leaderboard for the fastest times. The soap stars finished on top, completing their distance in two-and-a-half hours, winning by just two minutes.
The Hollyoaks cast took full advantage of their exposure, taking selfies with fans and they are predicted to have come out on top with their donation bucket.
Along with funds raised on the day, more than £150 has been donated through Facebook, too.
Daisy, who helps at the rescue centre when she isn’t portraying Kim, told JMU Journalism: “I just love animals. They are often forgotten about when it comes to charities.
“I wanted work at the centre because I wanted to help, their work is really good. They never turn animals away and they don’t put animals down. They’re given a really good home with hope that a permanent family can be found.
“The money can go a long way to help improve the site. There are also plans to get a new ambulance and money will also go towards helping vet bills.”
Luke told JMU Journalism: “It’s really important we help these animals, they’re a massive part of our lives. They bring out your maternal instinct and make you happy.”
Fundraising manager Emma Jensen said: “We are hoping other businesses and challengers come forward. It’s all part of a big push over the next 12 months. It was close today and we are looking forward to getting a leaderboard together.”
YouTube: Freshfields Rescue