A team of 42 students from Leeds University have come together and already raised over £21,752 in aid of Candlelighters.

Leeds RAG, the official fundraising society of Leeds University Union, have organised the trip, and chosen to support Candlelighters.

They will be setting off from Leeds on Monday 18^th June, making the 800 mile journey across mountains and the plains of Germany, to Prague in 9 days camping every night along the way.

Jen Aspinall, Community Fundraiser said “When Ellie Sanderson, one of the leaders of the Leeds RAG group, first contacted me she said ‘We are all really excited to start fundraising, and are looking forward to helping you make a difference!’ They have certainly done that! I have been amazed at how enthusiastic they have all been. The leaders arranged for me to talk to the group about the charity and they have visited us to learn about what Candlelighters do. I think this has motivated them to raise such an incredible amount, which will make a huge difference to children and their families across Yorkshire. Many of the team, who are studying at Leeds University, live all across the UK and everyone has got behind it. It really is fantastic to see!”

This is what a few of the participants had to say:

Ed Parkin said: The effort put in by all the participants and support team in preparation for our challenge has been incredible, and I am sure this will stand us in good stead for the cycle. The outstanding support that Candlelighters provide to children affected by cancer and the positivity of these children and their families have motivated us through our training, and will continue to do so during the challenge. I am extremely proud that Pedal to Prague can support this fantastic cause and I hope that we can make a difference.

Ellie Sanderson said: I’m really looking forward to the cycle – especially for the massive sense of achievement when we get to Prague! I’m also really proud of how much the team has managed to raise for Candlelighters. We’re going to be able to make a big difference to a really special charity that has touched all of our hearts.

Sam Holmes said: Pedal to Prague is one of the biggest challenges I have undertaken and it will be amazing to cycle across 4 countries with a group of great people. I’m proud that it is all being done with the main goal of raising money for a great local charity in Leeds that makes such a big difference to children and their families.

Flo Ball said: I am so looking forward to arriving in Prague and seeing all are hard work being paid. I’m so proud of all our participants who have done an amazing job raising so much for a brilliant charity.

Nathan Blott said: I’m so excited to be raising money for such a great cause. Bring on the hills!

It costs Candlelighters £1.6 million a year to provide a variety of services to bring light and hope to the families of children suffering from cancer, and our support lasts a lifetime.

If you would like to support Leeds RAG you can donated online at https://mydonate.bt.com/teams/ragprague2018