Story
Over the past three years, we at thyssenkrupp Materials UK have brought colleagues across our UK sites together through our BIG Challenge initiatives – from the BIG Commute (2023) to the Big Climb (2024), and the Big Walk (2025). Together, we’ve raised an incredible £43,700, showing the power of teamwork, resilience, and coming together as One Team. This year, we are happy to introduce our next fundraising venture: The Big Relay, in support of Mind UK!
The challenge will take place from Thursday 3rd - Friday 4th September 2026. The Big Relay is a 24-hour, team-based relay challenge - and unlike previous years, this one is time-based. That means it’s accessible, flexible, and designed for everyone, no matter their fitness level or experience.
How will it work?
Across 24 hours, 18 brave colleagues from our sites in Preston, Cradley Heath and Milton Keynes will work together in teams of three to complete:
• Swimming: 4 hours
• Cycling: 12 hours
• Walking/ jogging/ running: 8 hours
Each participant will take on a share of every activity, supporting one another throughout this continuous challenge.
This amazing challenge has been created to raise awareness and funds for Mind, a charity that resonates deeply with many of us across the business. They work tirelessly to provide advice, support, and guidance to anyone experiencing mental health difficulties. From offering helplines and local services, to campaigning for better mental health policy and fighting stigma nationwide, Mind ensures no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
Our fundraising throughout 2026 will help Mind continue expanding these vital services, improving access to support, and empowering more people across the UK to manage their mental wellbeing with confidence and dignity.
Meet our Preston team:
• Allison Poole
• Sean Prescott
• Carol Stanley
• David Lonsdale
• Clare Sharples
• Michael Sodano
Meet our Cradley Heath Team:
• Kerry Croxall
• Janine Scott
• Philip Nugent
• Valerijs Legostajevs
• Simon Bowen
• Jacqui McCarthy
Meet our Milton Keynes Team:
• Shauni Hart
• Laura McCormack
• Cerys Aylett
• David Pattison
• Beth Faint
• Elliot Robson
How You Can Help:
Your support is crucial to the success of our challenge and the impact we can make in supporting people with mental health problems and furthering the fight for mental health. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help us reach our fundraising goal and support Mind’s mission.
Stay Connected:
Keep an eye on our updates as we prepare for and undertake this challenge. We'll be sharing regular updates on our progress, stories from our relayers, and insights into the preparation and training involved. Follow our journey on our social media channels, and cheer on our teams as they tackle The BIG Relay Challenge!
Thank you for your generosity and support!