STAFF at Crewe-based telecommunications company eZe Talk are taking part in a series of challenges as part of Meningitis Now’s ‘May Mayhem’, a month dedicated to raising money and awareness of the charity.

An aerobics marathon involved all employees dressing up in brightly- coloured ‘Fame’-style costumes and being sponsored to exercise all day.

The employees were joined by a member of the Meningitis Now team, Chris Hughes, who highlighted the importance of raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and how catching the disease early could be lifesaving.

All funds raised from the activities will go towards offering support to families affected, raising awareness and researching the disease.

May Mayhem has also involved staff in a ‘bean stick challenge’, which involved them eating as many baked beans as possible in one minute, helped only by a cocktail stick.

Other activities planned for the month include baby’s day out, a pub quiz and swap with the boss for a day.

Steve Walsh, managing director of eZe Talk said: “Meningitis Now is our favoured charity because I have seen first-hand the effects of this terrible disease.

“Furthermore, with new grandchildren, it has brought home to me even more the need for awareness of this disease and to do whatever we all possibly can to assist Meningitis Now in their fantastic efforts.”

Helen Whatmore, Meningitis Now UK corporate and community development manager said: “We are extremely grateful to eZe Talk for their fundraising efforts.

“Every penny that is raised will go directly to helping fight this disease and to offer much needed support to families should the worse happen.

“We wish eZe Talk the best of luck with their fundraising activities during the month of May Mayhem.”

For more information, support or to make a donation to Meningitis Now, visit meningitisnow.org or call 0808 8010388.