John Duffy and Michael Tipple, from the Edinburgh team are taking part in the Macmillan Cancer Mighty Hike on 3 September. The Mighty Hike is a 26 mile walk to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, a UK based charity.

John started as a dispatcher in 2005 and is now part of the front of house team at Edinburgh in his role as a Gate Coordinator. The role is varied across the airlines the team at Edinburgh work with including the IAG group, Lufthansa Group, United, LoganAir, Balitc and Sun Express.

Michael has worked for Menzies at Edinburgh Airport for six years, starting as a dispatcher and currently the Front of House Duty Manager.

John, pictured above at last year's event, shared more about the challenge, “The 26 mile challenge takes you through the heart of Scotland following the Rob Roy Way. It’s my third time doing the event with over 2,000 walkers all supporting each other along the way.  Throughout the walk there are 3 steep inclines that challenge even the fittest and the last incline is a very steep downhill path. But a little pain in your legs and feet is nothing compared to someone going through cancer treatment.

“I'm taking part in the Macmillan Mighty Hike is because I've lost family, friends, and work colleagues to cancer and taking part means I can raise awareness and raise money for a fantastic charity. I'd love to grow this challenge within Menzies and build a team for next year.

“To get myself fit and ready I've taken on the Fife Coastal Path and walking into town for shopping. Work also keeps me busy, as I walk around 20,000 to 30,000 steps a day. I'm 53 now and I want to take on this challenge for as long as I can.”

Michael added, “This is my first Mighty Hike. I enjoy this type of challenge and as a regular hillwalker, I’m looking forward to the route through the Stirlingshire countryside.

“I lost my mother to cancer some years ago she was cared for by the Macmillan Nurses towards the end of her life, they were excellent. If I can give something back, then I’m more than happy to do so.”

If you’d like to support John and Michael, you can make a donation on John’s JustGiving page.