Bristol, Bath and the West

Register now for a monstrously fun challenge

Scottish legend, the Loch Ness Monster, visited Bristol recently to encourage people to register for a family fundraiser in aid of needy children.

Transport company FirstGroup is hosting their Mini Monster Fun Bike and Run on the Bristol Downs on Sunday, July 12, to raise cash for charity partner, Save the Children.

Nessie appeared on an open top bus on Ladies Mile to raise awareness of the event, which is one of five happening around the UK.

The spin-off from the annual First Monster Challenge, which takes place around the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland, will see teams of four competing in a cycling and running race against the clock.

With the choice to take part in either a family or adult race, the race is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

John Higginson, Operations Director of First Bristol, who competed in last years event said, "It's a perfect event for friends or families to complete together. You simply nominate two people to do the running - less than a mile each in the family race, and less than two miles in the adult race - and two people to do the cycling - around three miles in the family race and six miles for the adult race.

"The whole event is about having fun and keeping fit with friends and family, and can be combined with a day out or picnic on the Downs if the weather's nice."

Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of First Great Western, added: "We raised lots of money for charity last year, and we hope to do even better this year. I know staff from across First Great Western will be out in force to do their bit and I hope local people will get on board too."

Caroline Underwood, Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships at Save the Children said, "We have a wonderful relationship with First and its highly successful Monster events and are delighted it is returning to Bristol for a second year. Both the First Mini Monsters and the original First Monster Challenge in Inverness seem to be going from strength to strength - we are very optimistic that last year's total, of £110,000 will be bettered.

"All the money raised for Save the Children from the Bristol event will be spent on our work across the UK with some of the most vulnerable children to ensure they get the best start in life. I hope everyone enjoys the First Mini Monster and helps raise vital funds for Save the Children."

For more information or to register a team, at a cost of £5 per person, visit www.firstmonster.com