DIYWEEK.net

The home improvement retail giant's ceo Martyn Philips and Kingfisher's group executive Nick Folland are joining a host of B&Q and charity partner UK Youth representatives taking part in the London Triathlon this month.
Hoping to raise £100,000, the team will have more than 200 people swimming, cycling and running for UK Youth. Competitors can either go it alone or make up a team of three to complete the course. They can either do the sprint (750m swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run) or the Olympic distance (1500m swim, 40km bike ride, and 10km run) at the ExCeL centre, one of the host venues during London 2012.

Competitor Martyn Philips (B&Q ceo) said: "We are extremely proud of the work we have done with UK Youth and the young people in this country and taking part in the London Triathlon is just one of the many ways that we are honoured to help such a wonderful charity.

"The event is a fantastic opportunity to raise money, as well as bring our store staff, head office staff as well as the staff at UK Youth together. As it is the year of sport it seemed an appropriate way to support the charity, as well as challenge our colleagues and I hope everyone taking part enjoys the day and feels proud of what they have accomplished."

UK Youth ceo Charlotte Hill said: "Ever since the beginning of our partnership with B&Q their staff have been amazing and supported our work in so many ways. The incredible turnout at the London Triathlon is the latest example of what B&Q are doing collectively and as individuals to help us support young people in the UK."

UK Youth and B&Q's partnership began in 2011 after staff at the home improvement retailer resoundingly voted for a young person-orientated charity to support.