JIMMY SAVILE BACKS 126 MILE CHALLENGERS

2.09.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 20th May 2009

Greg Mulholland MP for Leeds North West met Sir Jimmy Savile on Monday at the Royal Armouries to discuss Greg's progress in the 126 challenge along side fellow challengers Martin Rivett and Cllr Ryk Downes.

Sir Jimmy was fascinated to hear about how the trio were getting on with their challenge and met them to congratulate them on their success in the Belfast marathon and to wish them well for the second leg of their challenge, a 100 mile walk to be completed within 48 hours.

Greg and his fellow challengers are raising money for three local charities - Holt Park based charity Kids in Kampz, Wheatfields Hospice in Headingley and the Wharfedale Hospital Special Equipment Fund. Donations can be made online at www.126milechallenge.co.uk or by cheques made payable to 126 mile challenge and returned to Greg's office at 12 Holt Park Centre, Leeds, LS16 7SR.

Commenting, Greg said;

"It was really nice of Sir Jimmy to come out and see us, he's a Leeds icon and I am grateful that he has taken such a keen interest in the challenge."

Cllr Downes said;

"I don't know where he gets his energy from! He could probably do the 100 mile walk with us and still have energy to spare."

Martin Rivett, Leeds Metropolitan University, said;

"What a character, he has raised lots of money for charity before by running marathons and things; I hope Jim can fix it for us to raise much more for our chosen charities!"