Porter Dodson proudly supported this year's Jail and Bail fundraising event held at Exeter Castle in support of Children’s Hospice South West.

Jail & Bail is a captivating courtroom event where nominated supporters are arrested, charged with entirely fictitious crimes, and then placed on trial. If found 'guilty' of their fictional crimes, the 'jailbirds' are taken into custody until they can raise bail from their connections, including friends, family, and colleagues, all aimed at raising vital funds for Children's Hospice South West.

Kate James, known for her enthusiasm for running, found herself charged with the fictitious crime of falsifying her Strava running times by overstating her 10K personal best and sharing it on social media to gain attention from her many followers.

The week leading up to the event saw peculiar occurrences at Porter Dodson when images of Kate sent from anonymous sources surfaced, coinciding with her recent remarkable running stats. These images showed her utilising various modes of transportation, including Zipp scooters and public transport, as well as making time for a tea break, all while supposedly breaking her 10K PB!

On Thursday 14^th March, Kate was apprehended by Devon and Cornwall Police in Exeter City Centre and subsequently put on trial at Exeter Castle, facing charges in front of a notorious 'no-nonsense' Judge. Her release was contingent on her raising £999 in bail money.

With overwhelming support from friends, family, colleagues, and local businesses, Kate managed to surpass her original bail target, raising £2,375, with the combined total of all nominated supporters over £8,000.

Reflecting on her experience, Kate expressed her relief at being released and commented, “Thank you so much to everyone who supported me - those who know me well will understand how much outside of my comfort zone I was! For starters my Strava account is sacred territory, fancy dress is not something that comes naturally and then acting out my role just led to nervous laughter! But then it wasn’t supposed to be easy.

"Later in the day we met Nicola whose 17 year old daughter, Molly, lost her fight to cancer whilst being supported by #childrenshospicesouthwest - I can’t comprehend her pain and my slight awkwardness was put to one side. Thank you Nicola for your bravery and for sharing your story.”

This event was not only a day of fun and frolicking but also served a noble cause by supporting Children's Hospice South West. The hospice provides essential care for children and young people living with life-limiting conditions and their families. Donations help facilitate hospice breaks, emergency care, palliative care, and end-of-life care at three wonderful children's hospices: Little Bridge House in Devon, Charlton Farm in Somerset, and Little Harbour in Cornwall.

Porter Dodson extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed to this meaningful cause and look forward to continuing its support for Children's Hospice South West, as one of the firm's chosen charities of the year.