The relay is organised by two local Lichfield ladies, the LEJoG Sisters, Dawn Stakounis & Sharon Atkinson – is in support of their epic Land’s End to John o Groats (that’s where “LEJoG” come’s from) cycling challenge that begins 9 days later. Dawn says:

“We’re hoping 10 big-hearted businesses will swap shirts & ties for shorts & t-shirts and the stationery cupboard for stationary bikes and join us for an hour in Lichfield’s Market Square!”

Each intrepid team will jump on exercise bikes and attempt to collectively ride 100 miles in just 1 hour, before handing the baton over to next team. As the last team completes its leg of the relay, altogether they’ll have completed 1,000 miles.

“No training's required,” Dawn assures us. “All you'll need is plenty of enthusiasm, a full water bottle and maybe a banana or two.

And if you’re from a small local business with fewer than 10 staff, we’d still love you to join in. So, why not team-up with other small businesses to make your team?”

The date of the event, the 3^rd of May, is an especially poignant one for Dawn. It will mark the 34^th anniversary of the death of her son, Christopher, from a brain tumour at the tender age of 6.

“Christopher was a bright & bubbly boy with a wicked sense of humour. Like so many little boys and girls his age, he was full of life, and he especially loved riding around on his BMX bike.

Sadly, Christopher didn’t survive his childhood cancer, and he'll be forever missed. But with the help of charity events like the Lichfield LEJoG Relay, continued research and advances in modern medicines, means more children’s lives can be saved.”

Each team is being asked to try to raise £1,000. This sponsorship will have a direct impact on the lives of families of children diagnosed with cancer. Donations enable Children with Cancer UK to offer incredibly important support to families – accommodation close to children’s hospitals, days out so families can spend time away from the hospital ward.

Ashleigh Davies, Senior Sports Coordinator from Children with Cancer UK said:

“We are so grateful to Dawn and Sharon for organising the Lichfield LEJoG Relay in support of Children with Cancer UK. Their commitment to raising funds and awareness for other families experiencing childhood cancer creates an impactful and long-standing legacy for Christopher.”

If you can give up just one hour to be one of the 10 teams, or would like to sponsor the event, email Ian Covey at ian@lejogsisters.org.uk

For more information follow this link to their website.