Ambitious walking challenge to raise vital funds

Staff at EiB are putting their best feet forward in 2021 and raising vital funds for Birmingham Children 's Hospital Charity.

The team has itself the ambitious challenge of 'virtually ' walking the distance of the Highways England and Transport Scotland Strategic Road Network, between 1January and 31March 2021 - more than 6,000 miles and 13.2 million steps between 22 members of staff.

Chris Geyton, managing director of EiB Professional Services, said: “Following a safety moment in December, we decided it was time to 'step up our game' in 2021 and increase our daily step count.

“We know the Strategic Road Network well and how long it is, so we knew it would be a challenge, but what a great way to raise money for an incredible local charity. ”

Money raised will support and enhance the services of the hospital by helping to fund additional facilities and equipment, supporting medical research and providing the extras that make being in hospital a more comfortable and less distressing experience for children and their families.

Beatrice Sayer, corporate fundraiser at Birmingham Children 's Hospital Charity, said: “We 're so thankful to the team at EiB for supporting our brave patients and families through this incredible challenge.

“Like many others, the last year has been really tough for our charity with many of our events and fundraising activities cancelled in light of Covid-19.

“That 's why it means so much to us that EiB are going the extra mile for us - literally - via this amazing feat.

“The money raised will go on to make a massive difference to our sick kids and their families. Thank you EiB and good luck! ”

EiB began the journey at the start of the A30 in Penzance, in Area 1.

In just three weeks, staff have already covered the length of the Highways England South West region and Area 3 in more than 2.7 million steps.

They will cover each of the strategic road network regions before moving onto the Transport Scotland network.

The virtual journey finishes at the top of the A9 in Thurso in the North West region of Transport Scotland.

Support their fundraising efforts by donating to the JustGiving page here.

Pictured: The EiB team have been braving all conditions - and even including their furry friends in the challenge