Chef Chris Galvin gets the run-around in Mayfair Park and Tower Race

Guests at the London Hilton on Park Lane were surprised to see runners hurling themselves through the hotel lobby and up the stairs in a unique charity challenge yesterday.

Chef Chris Galvin and former European and British Welterweight champion Clinton McKenzie, joined other runners taking on the Mayfair Park and Tower Race course – a 4.5 km sprint around the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park followed by a gruelling tower run up 28 floors to Galvin at Windows restaurant, the finish point for the race.

A new record was set for the race with Alan Murchison winning in 18 mins and 53 secs.

The goal of the event was to raise £20,000 in sponsorship for an into-work apprenticeship programme called Galvin's Chance. The initiative offers at risk young Londoners a series of apprenticeships in some of London's finest hotels and restaurants as part of a course to train and support them into full time employment.

The project has been initiated by Chris Galvin and speaking at the event, he said: "Working in restaurants, as I have now done for 32 years, has made me realise just what an inspirational sector this is and what a great opportunity we have to make a difference to young people's lives. The race follows on from that by helping people to help themselves, to learn and to be inspired. Every step taken on today's course is a step closer to helping someone who needs that second chance in life."

Galvin's Chance, now in its second year, provides an opportunity to disadvantaged young people in London between the ages of 18-24, including those at risk of gun and knife crime on some of Britain's most violent housing estates.

The programme, which has already supported several young Londoners into full time work, is delivered in partnership with The Springboard Charity, which specialises in helping young unemployed and disadvantaged people improve their prospects – through developing skills and finding sustainable jobs in the hospitality, leisure travel and tourism industries.

It will include industry leading training towards a 'front of house' hotel or restaurant career – one which requires dedication, ambition and enthusiasm.

Clinton McKenzie, who also took part in the race said: "This race is a fantastic chance to support a very important charity initiative. Galvin's Chance will give a group of disadvantaged young people an amazing opportunity to develop their talents and to work at the top level in the hospitality industry. It is a real pleasure to be involved in the project and I'm looking forward to seeing it continue to change young Londoners lives for the better."

All participants will also have the opportunity to engage in training at Westminster Kingsway College as part of the programme. The Apprenticeship will take up to 12 months to complete and the college courses should lead to an NVQ Level 2.

Simon Sheehan, director Hilton in the Community Foundation said: "The race is a fun event, but the intent is serious. Galvin's Chance is there to help real people, who might have not had every opportunity, to change their lives."

Words: Clare Riley

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