Yorkshire Air Ambulance worker takes on Examiner Charity Challenge

May 15 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Yorkshire Air Ambulance worker takes on Examiner Charity Challenge

A CHARITY worker is getting to grips with a new sport to raise money for a good cause.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance development officer Nicky de Whytell is taking part in the Nordic walking event at this weekend’s Examiner Charity Challenge.

The annual event in Meltham includes a Nordic walking route for the first time.

The sport, which is popular in continental Europe, involves walkers using poles to exercise the upper body muscles as well as the legs, burning off up to 40% more calories than conventional walking.

Nicky got her first taste of Nordic walking at a Kirklees Council-run session around Dalton on Wednesday.

She said: “It was a really good way to get some fresh air and exercise all parts of my body. Nordic walking appeals to me because it’s an innovative and unusual form of exercise.”

Nicky will take part in this Sunday’s walk with boyfriend Mike Massen to help raise funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

She said: “The charity needs £7,200 a day to keep both its helicopters and crews flying and saving lives across the region.

“This is the first sponsored event I’ve done since joining the Yorkshire Air Ambulance two years ago and I’m looking forward to a fun experience.

“I went to the charity challenge last year as a spectator and really enjoyed the community atmosphere, so I wanted to take part this year.”

To sponsor Nicky call 01442 280 122 or email n.dewhytell@yaa.org.uk

Nicky is just one of hundreds of people who will take part in Sunday’s Examiner Charity Challenge.