Some of the convenience sector’s leading lights are joining forces once again as part of a gruelling 440km charity cycle challenge across the island of Sri Lanka.

My Local directors Neil Turton and Raj Krishan, Spar managing director Debbie Robinson and HIM International’s  Tom Fender are amongst the 25 senior retailers and suppliers taking part.

The eight-day test from 6-14 February will see the team ride from coast to coast across the island of Sri Lanka in support of the Mines Advisory Group (MAG).

The UK-based charity works in Sri Lanka and across the world to clear war zones of landmines and weapons.

Last year, the team raised £136,440 for Vietnam Cambodia.

This year’s event is seeking to raise £125,000.

Neil Turton said, “I am so proud that our team smashed through our original target for Vietnam-Cambodia and raised £136,440 in the end. We wanted to make a difference again in 2016 so, although it has come around really quickly, I’m looking forward to cycling across Sri Lanka and to the laughs, camaraderie and team spirit along the way.”

Raj Krishan added: “Independent convenience stores are known for being friendly, delivering good service, there when you need them, working with the local community and supportive of good causes. This coming together of suppliers, wholesalers, retailers and supporting organisations in the convenience sector shows all of these attributes and what can be achieved by working together for a common cause.”

To sponsor team members on JustGiving please go to: http://www.justgiving.com/teams/CRSL