A GROUP of Bury Councillors have pledged to shed the pounds and get fit for great causes.

Eleven Labour representatives from across the borough have teamed up to take part in a weightloss challenge and give something back following the coronavirus lockdown.

Labour Group Leader and Leader of Bury Council, Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, said the pandemic had shone a spotlight on public health, including obesity, like never before, and had encouraged councillors to lead by example.

He added: “We might consider ourselves ‘political heavyweights’, but the truth is myself and some colleagues on the council could certainly do more to maintain a healthier weight.

“After chatting about it, we realised we could ignite our competitive spirit and raise money for local groups if we turned this into a challenge, so that’s what we’ve decided to do.”

The group is aiming to raise £2,000 by losing a collective 30 stones in the six months leading up to December.

Councillors taking part will be raising money for causes from their respective wards, which including food banks, community and youth centres, and Bury Hospice.

Many of these groups have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 outbreak, with some being prevented from carrying out their usual fundraising and activities, while others have seen a huge increase in demand.

Cllr O’Brien continued: “The competitive element is certainly a bit of fun between ourselves, but the challenge itself is a serious attempt to get fitter and healthier, and do something good for our community groups and charities that have either been negatively impacted by this crisis or been a critical part of the community response.

“I would encourage anyone who can donate to do so.”

To donate and for a full list of participating councillors and causes visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/burylabourweightlosschallenge.