STAFF from Forest Fuels in Okehampton have set themselves a team challenge of completing the Michelmores’ 5k charity run together, with the aim of raising £700 for Devon charity ‘Balloons’.

The run may not be taking place until September 7, but the keen group of 14 workers – from Forest Fuels’ managing director to delivery drivers – have been training since May to ensure they are in tip-top condition for the challenge.

Michelmores’ 5K run is in aid of the charity Balloons, which supports children and young people when they lose someone close to them.

‘We’re really proud of the effort staff are making,’ said Cathy Holland, compliance co-ordinator at Forest Fuels, who is also co-ordinating the company’s efforts.

‘We have been training together after work, and some people have even started running with their dogs!

‘Balloons is an exceptional charity – the only charity of its kind in the area and its mission really struck a chord with everyone here at Forest Fuels. The organisation does amazing work — providing valuable support for young people and their families when someone close to them dies — so we wanted to show our support for the great work that the charity does.’

With Michelmores’ 5k being the South West’s largest corporate charity run, Forest Fuels anticipated getting plenty of people to sign up from the head office in Okehampton. However, the company didn’t anticipate that workers from as far north as Telford would be determined to take part too.

‘This is the first year that Forest Fuels has taken part in the event,’ added Cathy. ‘I’ve been blown away by the amount of staff interest – particularly from those who are travelling from other areas of the country to take part. They’re already talking about doing it again next year.’

Forest Fuels has set up a JustGiving page with a target of £700. 

To learn more about the run and the cause that Forest Fuels is supporting, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/forest-fuels