The Police Tactical Unit Headquarters Sedan Chair Team is once again in training and hoping to defend the title that they have won for the last seven years. The annual Matilda Hospital Sedan Chair Race will be held at 9 am on November 18, and this year there are a record number of entries, so competition will be fierce.

The eight-man Team is required to run around an undulating three-kilometre course carrying the sedan chair with its 'honoured' passenger on board. The race is approximately 12 minutes of backbreaking exertion - but it is for a good cause - this year more so than ever, and we need your support!

The Team will be raising money for:

(i) The Matilda Hospital Charities

(ii)The 'New York City Police Foundation Heroes Fund', a special fund for police officers injured or killed in the World Trade Centre relief effort.

Two very worthwhile causes we're sure you'll agree.

We really do need your help and support!

Every contribution, no matter how small, will help.

And if you really want to support the Team, your presence along the course route, on November 18, cheering us on would be greatly appreciated.

Please send your contributions (crossed cheques payable to A. W. Naylor) to PTU HQ (Attention: Andrew Naylor). Donors may specify whether their contributions should go to the Matilda Hospital Charities or New York City Police Foundation Heroes Fund. Otherwise, their contributions will be shared by them equally. Official receipts will be provided.

Are you fit enough to do this?