Hitting heights for charity

AN ANNUAL event which sees competitors race up 351 steps to the top of Leicester’s “blue tower” is attracting international climbing talent this time around.

The Loros Tower Run, which sees people race up 351 steps to reach the top of Leicester’s St George’s Tower, takes place for the fifth time on Saturday, March 14.

The day, which has become a key date in the Tower Running World Association calendar, will see competitive tower runners and charity fund-raisers alike join together to walk or run up the stairs of the iconic blue building and raise money for Loros hospice.

Last year’s event was extremely popular, with more than 400 runners raising an impressive £20,000 for the hospice.

Among the confirmed participants for this year is British newcomer Laurence Ball.

Laurence made his debut on the Tower Running circuit just last year, when he took first place at the Walkie Talkie Tower Climb in London.

“I won that race – much to my surprise – I remember stumbling out at the top of the building, panting, and there were lots of people staring at me and I didn’t know why!”

Now second in the UK and “the one to watch”, Laurence has a busy calendar of races for the coming year, including the Loros event.

“There aren’t many races in the UK, especially outside London. I’ve heard that it’s a short and very fast run, which is a bit different for me - the idea of a sprint is exciting. Of the races in the UK, it seemed like an ideal one.”

Competing against Laurence for top spot will be Hendrik Holstad, Norway’s reigning Tower Run champion, who is making his first trip to Leicester.

“I read about the Loros tower run on the Tower Running Association homepage.

“It’s not too far away for Norway and I find it very exciting to travel in the UK. I’m really interested to see how the race model will differ over there.”

Tom Price, of Loros, said: “It’s amazing to see how far word of the Loros Tower Run has spread.

“We attract some terrific talent to Leicester each year, helping to build the city’s profile and of course, raise essential funds.”

Participants will each receive a finisher’s medal and be able to enjoy views across the city from the finish line on the top floor.

■ Entry costs just £17 or is free for anyone who pledges to raise £50 for Loros. For more information or to find out how you can sign up, visit: