Staff at a Leeds shopping centre will don their walking boots next week to help raise vital funds for the aid effort in Haiti.

The management team at The Light, retail and leisure scheme, on the Headrow, will walk 25 miles – just 1.2 miles short of a marathon – from Leeds city centre to York city centre on Monday 8 February.

The team have a set target of £1500 but are hoping to raise as much money as possible so are urging Leeds businesses to unite and show their support by offering sponsorship.

Brian Oakley, Kevin Bilclough, Gemma Chidgey and Sarah Masoom decided to undertake the challenge after being moved by the horrific plight and ongoing struggle survivors of last month’s earthquake are facing.

The centre’s general manager, Brian Oakley said: “Like the rest of the world we have been deeply moved by what has happened in Haiti and the loss of life and devastation the country is dealing with. That’s why we have decided to try and do our bit to help raise funds and make whatever contribution we can.”

The team will set off from The Light at 8.30am and expect the route to take approximately 8 hours to complete. The finish point will be at The Coppergate Shopping Centre, in the centre of York. Both shopping centres are managed by NB real estate, which has also kindly offered its support by offering a donation to the appeal.

Brian continued: “We are all reasonably fit but we’re sure this will be a serious challenge and one that we hope people will support us in by donating whatever they can.”

To make a donation simply visit www.justgiving.co.uk/thelight

All funds raised will go to The British Red Cross, which is helping the people of Haiti by distributing vital supplies, providing medical aid and water for survivors.

Media Contact: Paula Toole at Ledgard Jepson on 01226 732100 / 07738219278 or paula@ledgardjepson.com