Having completed a rigorous training regime, the routes team is primed and ready for the inaugural gorilla run in support of The Gorilla Organization. 12 hardy souls will take part in the BUPA Great Manchester Run on Sunday 26th May. However, rather than just completing the run, maximum impact (and embarrassment) is assured as the team will be running the 10km distance in a variety of gorilla costumes.

The man behind the initiative is Jon Howell, tourism development manager, Routes, who said: “UBM are a truly philanthropic organisation who support a variety of great causes and with Routes Africa due to take place in Uganda in early July, we wanted to use the opportunity to support a local charity."

The Gorilla Organization works to protect the endangered mountain gorilla in its native habitat. It also works to ensure that local people benefit from their unique natural heritage. The Organisation, founded by the late Dian Fossey who lived with the gorillas, is involved in education, conservation and public awareness.

The Routes team is bidding to raise a minimum of £500 and still have some way to go, but if you would like to support the cause, please visit www.justgiving.com/thegreatgorillarun.

We will provide an update of the team’s progress next weekend.

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