Ladies' Driving Challenge

On 26 September 2010, The Fire Fighters Charity and Grove House Hospice once again will visit Bovingdon Airfield, Near Hemel Hempstead, Herts to give women the chance to drive a once in a lifetime variety of large and unusual vehicles in the 'Ladies Driving Challenge'. Participants will be able to try their hand at manoeuvring a range of different vehicles such as Fire Engines, 4x4's, HGV's, JCB's and possibly tractors all kindly donated by local companies.

This has proved to be a great team building event for local companies, such as Bovis Lend Lease who took part last time with 7 members of staff. Chris Walmsley from Bovis Lend Lease said "The Ladies Driving Day was something I had wanted to try for ages. We had a great afternoon, and the variety of vehicles was amazing. I couldn't pick any one "zone" as best - as they were all fun ! Plus the fact we were raising money for two worthy causes was very satisfying too. If you get the chance - give it a go..." . Her colleague also commented "Had a brilliant day, a "Once in a lifetime" experience!" If you register 10 colleagues/friends, one goes free!!!

The Big Red Bus kindly being brought on the day by 'A Route 2 Hire' will be there to transport ladies around the huge site and the Top Fundraisers in each session will be able to drive this bus as part of their prize.

Event Organiser, Laura Harden, said "The Ladies Driving Challenge promises to be an exciting day, with the chance to operate a fantastic collection of vehicles often associated with male drivers. Other types of driving event can be uncomfortably competitive with an emphasis on speed, and this has been known to put off some women. The Women-only Challenge is much more relaxed with the focus on handling vehicles with skill and enjoying new experiences, as well as raising money for a good cause.'

All women over the age of 17 with a full driving licence are welcome to join in the fun during either the morning or afternoon sessions. Registration costs £10 and entrants are asked to raise a minimum of £90 in sponsorship. Top Fundraisers will be able to drive the Big Red Bus as part of their prize for raising the most money for the charities.

All proceeds from the event will go to The Fire Fighters Charity and Grove House Hospice. Laura Harden explained, "Behind the fun, there is a very serious message that we are supporting those heroic fire fighters who risk their lives for us. When they run into a burning building, there is always the very real risk of serious injury, and when the worst happens not only fire fighters suffer, but also their families. The Fire Fighters Charity is the only charity dedicated to supporting fire fighters and their families in times of need and helping to speed their recovery back to operational duty."

Liz Hizli, Fundraiser at Grove House Hospice, says "We are delighted to be involved in this exciting and unusual event, Grove House Hospice is constantly trying to raise funds to continue to be able to offer care and support to patients and their families at a very vulnerable time in their lives. Every single penny makes a difference."

To register contact Liz Hizli 01727 731008 or register online here.