A CORONAVIRUS survivor is raising money for the hospital that 'saved her life' by taking to the track in her wheelchair.

Gillian Bennett, 80, aims to raise £500 for Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity in recognition of the medics who treated her at Leighton Hospital.

During her 'Gilly-Athlon' she aims to complete 10 miles round the Oulton Park race track in her battery powered wheelchair next Monday (August 10).

Then she will take to the pool and attempt a 100-metre swim using flotation aids at a date to be confirmed because of the COVID restrictions.

Gillian was admitted to Leighton after her temperature soared to forty degrees during a chest infection. She tested positive for coronavirus and her condition deteriorated.

She was in hospital for nearly four weeks before she was well enough to be discharged home.

She left to the applause of waiting ward staff in emotional scenes.

"I received excellent care from a whole team of dedicated NHS professionals who worked tirelessly every day to save my life as well as others," said Gillian, who lives at Nantwich.

"My local hospital has always been there for me during my life's ups and downs, from a heart attack to having had a serious stroke back in 2016 which left me disabled and confined to a wheel chair. I therefore feel it's time to give something back."

Carole Salmon, Charity Community Fundraiser at Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, said: "Gill's story and fundraising energy are truly inspirational.

"I am looking forward to cheering her on during her challenge. I would like to say a big thank you to her and her family for their support".

If you wish to donate to Gillian's cause go here