Some like it hot! Sahara trek for father-and-son directors of Leeds firm

David and Jonathan Marsden, directors at city business The Technology Group, will spend next week on a 100km trek through the Sahara desert in Morocco.

They hope the epic test of their endurance will raise £10,000 in sponsorship for the Leeds Mencap centre currently under construction on Vinery Terrace in East End Park.

The fundraising trek follows their firm’s pledge to kit out the building with telephone and internet equipment worth more than £50,000.

Jonathan said: “We are thrilled with the support we have seen from our clients, friends and business partners.

There is still a long way to go to reaching our target of £10,000 but we have seen a very positive response so far and I’d like to thank all that have donated in support of such a great cause.”

Sarah Hooker, head of fundraising at Leeds Mencap, said: “We are completely indebted to The Technology Group who have already supported us with £50,000 worth of equipment and resource for the new centre.

“We’re delighted that David and Jonathan are continuing to support Leeds Mencap through this fantastic challenge and would urge all local businesses to help them and in turn us on our final phase of our building campaign.”

As previously reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post, the new centre will house Leeds Mencap’s specialist services for people with learning disabilities.

In an innovative move, it will also be home to a nursery and other facilities for the wider community.

For information on how to sponsor David and Jonathan, visit the www.ttgsahara.co.uk website.

Donations can also be made quickly and easily by texting SAND20 £3 to 70070.