Hollyoaks star Jennifer Metcalfe is urging people in Manchester and the surrounding area to help raise vital cash for local causes by jumping on a bike and getting pedalling during the UK’s biggest indoor cycle ride.
Organisers of the Sport Relief Better Bike Challenge are aiming to get 10,000 people to donate £1 and pedal one mile in order to raise £10,000 for Sport Relief at one of more than 150 leisure centres ahead of this year’s event.
Sport Relief, which runs from March 18-20, is held every two years and raised more than £50m for charities in 2014.
And Jennifer, who has played Mercedes McQueen in the long-running soap since 2006, believes the bike ride is a great way for people to make a difference -and get fit into the bargain.
“It’s a fun, fantastic way to raise money for a great cause,” said the 32-year-old qualified personal trainer and challenge ambassador.
“I think people in Manchester should get involved in the Sport Relief Biggest Bike Challenge because it’s fun, it’s easy and anybody can do it, whatever your capability, and it is just one pound for such an excellent cause.
“Sport Relief is a great campaign because it not only raises money for a great cause but it encourages everyone to take part in some sort of exercise.
“I think it’s important that everyone of all ages, shapes and sizes feels comfortable enough to take part in sport as there is always something for anyone of any ability.
“These days people have such a hectic lifestyle it’s important that you save 30 minutes at least for exercise just for your body and yourself.
“It leaves your head feeling care free and you’re doing something great for your body as well. I think anybody of any ability can take part in any sport.”
The Better Bike Challenge is running at all Better leisure centres, and is just one of the fundraising initiatives organised by Better who are an official partner for Sport Relief 2016.
Leisure centres in the area taking part include Abraham Moss Leisure Centre, Chorlton Leisure Centre, East Manchester Leisure Centre, Levenshulme Leisure Centre, Manchester Aquatics Centre, Moss Side Leisure Centre, North City Family and Fitness Centre, Withington Leisure Centre and Wythenshawe Forum.
Jennifer Metcalfe is an ambassador for the Sport Relief Better Bike Challenge. For more information on getting involved and raising money for Sport Relief, visit better.org.uk or any Better leisure centre
