On Friday 27 May 2022, four friends from Yorkshire are cycling the distance from Harrogate to Monaco to raise money in memory of their loved ones.
Whilst drivers are preparing for what is widely considered the most prestigious race in the Formula 1 season, the Monaco Grand Prix; Ollie Ward, Joe Braham, Henry Bartle and Jeremy Butterfield are gearing up for their own event this weekend.
They are attempting to cycle 1573km in 24 hours from Harrogate to Monaco, raising money for two charities in memory of two loved ones who were both massive fans of F1.
The cyclists have even received a good luck message from England football manager, Gareth Southgate.
In April of 2020, their beloved friend James Hindmarsh was devastatingly diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer called Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS). The following year saw months of gruelling radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment, James fought hard but sadly lost his battle in 2021.
The fundraising started here with his friends raising money to pay for his private treatment which they instead decided to donate to Sarcoma UK, a bone and soft tissue cancer charity. Just weeks later in May last year, Henry, Ollie and Jeremy ran three marathons in three days whilst Joe, who lives in Switzerland, embarked on his own challenge to raise money, a ski tour from Verbier to Mount Fort.
This year, half of the money raised will be donated to Leeds Hospitals Charity, who will allocate it to Leeds Cancer Centre; a centre very close to James’ heart. Jeremy says "The money raised will go towards support and help for others fighting the same fight our best mate did so bravely."
The other half of the money will be donated to The David Brown Foundation in memory of Ollie's Uncle. A thoughtful, caring and kind man who devastatingly lost his battle to Covid-19 in December 2021. David gave his life to others by supporting children's education in the UK and helping students across the district to reach their full potential, and the boys will be following in his footsteps.
As well as Formula 1 both James and David were huge football fans and ahead of the challenge the team received a good luck message from England football manager Gareth Southgate, praising their bravery, courage and urging others to donate all they can.
The boys say "Both James and Dave never gave up in their fights and we will continue their legacies to help others fight the challenges they are facing. Every cycle of the bike erg they will both be with us, probably with a wry smile and a Peroni in hand. They are forever in our hearts."
Tucked away from the bustling streets of the city centre you’ll find a Leeds institution that has been serving diners since 1991.
You've probably walked past Sous Le Nez hundreds of times and not popped in.
But if we can convince you to do anything, it's to head down those unassuming stairs on Quebec Street and ask for a table.
Set in a cavernous basement, the space is full of nooks and crannies, and in a flash, you’ll be whisked away to the South of France with stellar service and white tablecloths to match.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Their food is classic French cuisine done to an excellent standard.
We're talking indulgent French onion soup, rich pan-seared duck breast, juicy rump steak with silky peppercorn sauce and moule-frites served in a sauce good enough for drinking.
And if the food isn't enough to get you excited, then wait until you hear about the wine list.
Featuring over 300 wines, you'll find a tipple to suit every taste and every flavour on the menu.
As well as its a la carte menu, they offers it's menu du soir which is available until 6:45pm on weekdays and on a Saturday lunch time.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It includes three courses including half a bottle of excellent wine per person. I mean, you really can't get better value then that, can you?
More recently, renowned food critic Jay Rayner praised Sous Le Nez for its fabulous food and we couldn't agree more. And if it's good enough for Jay, then it's certainly good enough for us.
This is the sort of spot that is full of regulars no matter the time of day, whether they’re stopping by for a quick lunch or indulging in their evening menu - it’s no surprise they’ve been a firm Leeds favourite for over 30 years.
You can find out more about Sous Le Nez and book your table here.
Inside Leeds’ newest late night bar dedicated to Guinness and gaming
Clementine Hall
Get ready for plenty of craic at Leeds' brand-new bar.
If you like Guinness and you've got a competitive spirit, then we can guarantee this is the spot for you.
Introducing Love Jackie, your newest late night destination that is officially opening in Leeds next Thursday 12 November.
Opening on Leeds' bustling Merrion Street, Love Jackie has taken over a 7,000 sq ft space and promises proper prints, late nights, live music, and plenty of Irish charm.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Pouring is undeniably the holy trinity of Irish stouts - Guinness, Beamish and Murphy's.
These are also served alongside Leeds' own Kirkstall Virtuous IPA and a vast whiskey selection that celebrates the best of Ireland.
Games wise, try your hand at crazy pool, interactive darts, shuffleboard and karaoke. There will also be live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The opening comes as Merrion Street enjoys a new wave of investment and hospitality openings, helping bring new life to one of Leeds' best known night life attractions.
Matt Jones, CEO of Professionals at Play, said: “Everyone knows a Jackie. She’s the one who gets everyone together, convinces you to stay for another and makes sure there’s never a dull moment.
“We wanted to create a pub with that same personality. Somewhere with brilliant drinks, live music, plenty of games and the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget you were only popping in for one.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
“Merrion Street is coming back to life, and we’re excited to be part of its next chapter. We think Jackie will fit right in. And because Jackie’s never been one to turn up empty-handed, the first drink’s on her."
They'll be opening next Thursday just in time for the festive season, but for now you can sign up here for a pint of free Guinness. Cheers to that!