STAFF at Pure Gym in York are leading a challenge to run on a treadmill continuously for 12 hours raising funds for vital bone cancer research.

The “Treadathon” is being held for the Guy Francis Bone Cancer Research Fund on Tuesday, May 20 from10am.

The staff will take it in turns to run, keeping the treadmill going for 12 hours and clocking up as many miles as possible. Gym members and visitors at the gym on Clifton Moor can show their support by taking a turn on the treadmill and by donating to Guy's Fund.

Gym manager Claire Hunter said: “We were shocked to learn that bone cancer mainly affects teenagers, peaking at the age of 17. We wanted to do something for this great local charity and our staff decided an endurance challenge would be just the thing."

The gym will also be offering free day passes to non members on the day, in return for a £5 donation to the charity.

Mike Francis whose son Guy died of bone cancer in 2002 aged just 23, said: “We are thrilled by the enthusiasm of Pure Gym to support our campaign to raise funds for vital research and promote awareness about this cruel disease.

"In Yorkshire we have two excellent research centres in York and Leeds and we are determined to give them all the backing we can.”

To find out more contact Claire Hunter at Pure Gym on 07739 036791 or Mike Francis at Guy’s charity on 01904 799151 or 07761 081918.