Historic Leeds 400 challenge calls on city to go the extra mile

Participants of all ages can help showcase the best of Leeds by coming up with their own creative ideas for activities, events or challenges, all themed around the number 400.

Examples could include anything from walking, running, cycling, baking, volunteering, dancing or painting, but no idea is too big or too small.

Anyone completing a What’s Your 400? challenge is then asked to share their efforts on social media using #WhatsYour400 and download their own certificate online to celebrate their accomplishment.

Among those already set to put their best foot forward for the cause are the Manbassadors men’s health group based in Leeds City Council’s Active Leeds team.

The group of 12 work to champion men’s health among colleagues and have pledged to walk 400 miles this May to celebrate Leeds 400 while also raising money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Beginning their epic effort at the John Charles Centre for Sport on May 7, the group’s first walk will take in Leeds landmarks including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Esholt Woods and the Meanwood Valley Trail.

Group member Neil Jones, who works in the development team for Active Leeds, said: “This is a massive moment in the history of Leeds and we felt it was so important that we get involved and make our mark while also raising awareness of men’s health and a wonderful local charity.

“Leeds 400 is all about taking part, and we wanted to show that everyone can get involved in their own way, get together, have some fun and make this a year that really does bring out the best in Leeds.

“It’s going to be a massive challenge but we’re ready to take it on and we really hope we can inspire other people all around Leeds to join in and have a go at something of their own too.”

Taking place across the year, celebrations for Leeds 400 will commemorate four centuries since the very first Leeds City Charter was bestowed on the city in 1626 by King Charles I.

The granting of the prestigious charter changed the course of the city’s history, laying the foundations of modern-day Leeds by incorporating it as a “free borough” and a “body corporate and politic.”

A programme of exciting events and activities will be taking place across the city, with residents also being encouraged to recognise the occasion in their own way.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Leeds has a rich, proud and unique history, but what really makes it such a special place is the people who live here, who have each played their part it making it such a vibrant, diverse and exciting city.

“That’s why we want the people of Leeds to be at the heart of Leeds 400 and for them to have the opportunity to show everyone exactly what this year and this city means to them.

“Whenever there’s a challenge, Leeds never fails to deliver, and we can’t wait to see the many different ways people express themselves and help us make history as part of What’s Your 400?”

Anyone in Leeds is invited to be part of What’s Your 400? and participants can find out more about how to get involved and download a certificate by visiting What's Your 400? | Culture Programmes

More information about Leeds 400 and the events programme can also be found at: Welcome to Leeds 400 – A Year of Celebration | Culture Programmes

ENDS