Lee Edwards, operational engineer for UK Power Networks Services in Canary Wharf, will embark on the challenging charity Mighty Hike along the stunning Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The charity is important to them because Lee’s partner Mandy was diagnosed with cancer in 2019, which she successfully overcame. His grandmother was supported by Macmillan during her battle with cancer in 2010. Recently, a colleague of Mandy's also received a cancer diagnosis, caught early, giving them the best hope for a positive outcome.

Lee, Mandy, and their 14-year-old daughter/stepdaughter Rihanna have each pledged to raise £250 for Macmillan Cancer Support. They are already 60% of the way towards their £750 target. UK Power Networks’ matched funding initiative offers up to £100 for individuals and £500 for teams, for charitable fundraising events they have been involved in.

Reflecting on life in his early 20s, Lee decided it was now time to break the mundane and take on a new challenge.

He said:

Lee is committed to improving his health and fitness in preparation for the hike. He has embraced the company's cycle-to-work scheme and regularly goes on cross-country rides. Lee and Mandy have been training by hiking around London, Rome and Athens, as well as Ely in Cambridgeshire and Dedham in Essex, with plans for longer hikes in the near future.

Whilst playfully sceptical of the distance of the hike, Lee's friends and family have been incredibly supportive of his fundraising efforts. Lee is aware of the challenges that lie ahead but feels confident with Mandy’s support as she has experience with similar hikes.

The choice of the Jurassic Coast for the hike is due to its stunning scenery and the opportunity for a memorable experience with his family.

Lee said: