WORCESTER YMCA will use cycle power to spread a message of unity and goodwill.

Residents and staff from the hostel in Henwick Road, St John’s, Worcester, are taking part in a unique relay race that will unite YMCAs all over the Midlands and highlight the important work carried out by the charity.

The participants will hand deliver the message – an inspirational memo from chief executive of YMCA England Ian Green – to Redditch YMCA. The team of four, which will receive the message at 3pm tomorrow, will have 24 hours to convey it without using motorised transport.

Instead, they will cycle from Worcester to Redditch, keeping to canal towpaths and cycle routes. While the exact wording of Mr Green’s message is not yet known, YMCA business development manager Sallie Ryan said it would speak of unity and dignity.

She said: “The YMCA supports young people along their journey towards independence and the realisation of their potential and the relay reflects that.

“The message will be about unity, particularly when it comes to helping vulnerable young people during difficult times in their lives.

“It will raise the issue of homelessness at a time of year when most of us are thinking about Christmas. The nights are closing in and we should all be thinking about those who are less fortunate than us, especially those sleeping rough in the city.”

The relay, which will end in Leicester next Tuesday, will kick-start a busy period for Worcester YMCA.

After delivering the message, staff and residents will start planning for the YMCA Sleep Easy. The national event takes place on Saturday, January 30 and will see thousands of people all over Britain sleep rough to raise money. For more information on the YMCA regional relay, call 01905 423197.