Castleford fitness fanatic starts own Facebook page to help isolated community stay active

Rikkis brother, Ross, is also in the army, he will be running the 10 mile challenge in full uniform and backpack

He set up his own Facebook page, called ‘Daily Fitness Challenge’, each day he posts a challenge aimed at all ages and fitness levels, to build strength, stamina and fitness.

Rikki hopes that everyone involved will partake in a 10 mile outdoor challenge in the future, as part of the final challenge, to celebrate the community coming out of isolation.

Rikki said: “I've decided to use my free time to help people keep fit and positive in these troublesome times.

Rikki's Facebook group allows the community to share photos, fitness milestones and stay connected in hard times

“My final challenge will be set for when the government's social distancing measures have finally been relaxed.

“It will consist of a 10 mile run or walk individual effort around Castleford, all participants will be able to raise money through the just giving app on my page.”

He is also using the challenge as an opportunity to raise money for the families in the area who have lost loved ones to COVID-19.

Rikki also wants donors to take a vote on where extra funds raised should go to.

He said: “The family could use the money to give their loved one a belated send off that they truly deserve or could be used for a whole lot of things.

“The more people that join will result in the more money we could raise for families in our community, should they lose someone to this horrible virus.

“All in all, It’s important that people find ways to keep fit, it's good for the mind, especially at times like this, and as a positive on back of that, we’re raising money for a good cause.”

Rikki’s brother, Ross, is also in the army, and some of the troops will come to greet the public on the day of the final challenge.

Former paratrooper, Rikki Turner, has been laid off during the coronavirus crisis, but hes determined to help people to work towards reaching their fitness goals

He said: "My brother will be completing the final challenge along with lots of colleagues in full uniform and back packs.

"This should help raise more money for the final challenge."

The group has reached 130 members in just two days and has received support from current bare knuckle boxing British champion, Anthony Holmes and Castleford Tigers prop, Liam Watts.

Click here to join the Daily Fitness Challenge Facebook page