York duo plan to conquer Cuba – by bike

The York pair are taking part in the Women V Cancer challenge over five days in October.

They will be raising money for three charities: Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. Money will also go to support cancer care in Cuba.

“This is the chance of a lifetime for myself and Anne to make a difference and to help others,” Leanne said. “I saw an article on the Cuba challenge in a magazine and I thought I’d like to have a go. After a little gentle persuasion, Anne agreed to come with me.”

Anne, payroll officer at Ampleforth College near York, said: “It will be a journey full of fun, friendship and incredible support as women of all ages and from all walks of life challenge themselves for an amazing cause.

“This fantastic challenge is a great opportunity for us to get fit, lose weight and have an experience of a life time all whilst raising significant funds to help in the fight against breast, ovarian and cervical cancers.”

To take part in the Women v Cancer challenge in Cuba, they need to raise a minimum of £6,000, and have nearly £4,700 in the pot so far.

“We must have the minimum target submitted to Women v Cancer by the end of July otherwise we will have to give up our places. We have put so much hard work into the fundraising, and a great deal of our own money into this, that it would be incredibly disappointing if we were to fall at the last hurdle,” said Leanne, who works as a personal assistant at York accountants Garbutt & Elliott.

She said any donation, no matter how small, would make a big difference. “Every single penny is greatly appreciated.”

• To donate to the cause, visit Leanne’s JustGiving site