Civil servants are being encouraged to ditch their desks for the outdoors.

Head of the Civil Service, Kenneth Dill, wants Government staff to get fitter by taking part in this year's Catlin End to End. "I see it as an excellent opportunity to encourage the concept of wellness within the Civil Service, and indeed throughout the community," said Mr. Dill.

"Participation in this event is also an opportunity for everyone working within the Civil Service to give back to the community, by raising money for various charities and to show that walking, rowing or riding is a fun activity in which we all can participate.

"I believe it is important to adopt a wellness lifestyle. We all know the long-term benefits of healthy living, which leads to lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, decreased heart disease and more energy.

"Whether participants choose the end to end, middle to end, Somerset to Dockyard, to row or ride, I invite my colleagues to join me."