French challenge for Leeds Met hockey

Hockey players from Leeds Met are preparing for the challenge of a lifetime as gear up to cycle to France to raise money for charity.

The boys who are normally found on Headingley Campus pitches are going to trade in their sticks for bikes as they take on the 220 miles challenge to Paris.

The idea which came about last October was launched into action at the beginning of January and with only 16 days left until the challenge begins, the students are raring to go.

"We were desperate to do something to help contradict the stereotypical views of students." says Mark Shopland, Leeds Met hockey 1st team captain.

The hard work will all be worthwhile for the students if they succeed in raising £2,000 for Help for Heroes. Club Secretary, Sam Roberts adds: "We chose this charity as we know that many people have been injured fighting for this country and if we can do even the smallest thing to help them out we will endeavour to do this."

"Students of the present will honour the Heroes of the past by passing through War Memorials at Dunkerque and the Somme and showing their respect," continued Club Captain Ollie Lumley.  "We have raised a substantial amount so far but we are determined to surpass our £2000 target."

The Men's Hockey team, who are known for their generosity and fundraising events are hoping that this can become a benchmark for student fundraisers in the future.

You can sponsor the players as they undertaken their challenge at www.justgiving.com/leedsmetmenshockey