Nearly 700 complete Public Sector Challenge across London's iconic bridges
Nearly 700 public sector workers, their families and friends took to London's iconic bridges on Saturday, January 18, for the inaugural Public Sector Challenge, raising vital funds for Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.
The event, sponsored by leisure operator Everyone Active, brought together public sector workers, their families, and friends for the charitable challenge.
Participants tackled either a 25km route from Putney or a family-friendly 15km route from Battersea, with Everyone Active showing strong support through the participation of over 100 of their own colleagues and their families.
The event concluded at Southwark Park's bandstand, where Olympic sprinter and BBC star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey presented Digital Modus-sponsored medals to finishers.
Jonathan Stephenson, founder of the Public Sector Challenge and CEO of Brentwood Borough Council and Rochford District Council, said: "This event being our first in London, we were thrilled to attract nearly 700 people. The sight of purple-clad participants along the Thames was truly inspiring, and everyone showed incredible determination despite the chilly weather.
"Together, we've raised significant funds for two vital causes while highlighting the importance of physical activity and mental health awareness."
Jonathan continued: “The Public Sector Challenge has already raised nearly £250,000 to support Cancer Research UK and British Heart Foundation. The intention is to grow the challenge further and meet the fundraising target of £1 million over the next four years.
“The challenge will also be back in the capital again for January 2026 and will bigger and better!"
Everyone Active, which operates leisure facilities across London in partnership with numerous councils, served as the main sponsor of the event.
Duncan Jefford, Everyone Active's Regional Director, said: “Everyone Active is immensely proud to sponsor this event, which perfectly aligns with our mission to encourage more people to lead active, healthy lifestyles.
"Having our ambassador Harry Aikines-Aryeetey join us made the day even more special - as someone who regularly trains at our South London facilities and mentors aspiring athletes through our Sporting Champions scheme, his energy and enthusiasm brought extra excitement and inspiration to those completing the challenge."
The Public Sector Challenge has seen remarkable growth since its inception in 2022, when Jonathan led 30 council employees on the Three Peaks Yorkshire challenge - a 26-mile walk and climb completed in 12 hours, raising more than £12,000 for local charities.
Building on this success, the initiative expanded in June 2023 to become a national event, with public sector teams and private sector partners taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge.
The Public Sector Challenge will be heading to the Peak District in September 2025 with five different routes as part of its Peak Pursuit challenge. To support all abilities in taking part, the routes vary from 8,15,21, 26 mile and 5-mile wheelchair accessible route.
Fundraising totals from the London Bridges Challenge will be announced once all donations are collected.
For more information, visit: https://publicsectorchallenge.co.uk