THIRTEEN is the lucky number for a group of opticians raising money for charity.

That is the number of people from across the county who have organised and will take part in a triathlon to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Trust.

The event on Sunday involves a one-mile swim at Abingdon’s White Horse Leisure Centre, a 15-mile bike ride and a five-mile run.

The fundraising drive by staff from six Robert Stanley Kodak Lens Vision Centres suffered a blow last month when a thief stole a collection tin from the Carterton branch.

Thame branch manager Steve Alexander said: “It’s a bit unusual to organise your own triathlon but we thought it would be a good way of raising money.

“It’s been challenging trying to work out routes and it was a real shame when someone stole a tin with about £50 to £60 in it.

“All but two of us have never taken part in a triathlon before so it will be a real challenge, especially doing 64 lengths of a swimming pool.

“I think most people at the company know someone affected by cancer so this will be a good way of fighting it.”

He added the team hope to raise at least £500.

The challenge will act as training for three of the team – they have entered one of the biggest events in the triathlon calendar, the Blenheim Triathlon at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, in June. Mr Alexander, John Edwards and Rebecca Dawson will tackle the team element of the triathlon, raising funds for the Steps Charity – an organisation which supports children and adults who are affected by a lower limb condition.

Abingdon branch manager Mrs Dawson said: “It’s such a worthy cause and I’m a great believer in the benefits of sport.

“Steve, John and myself are extremely competitive anyway so I’m sure we’ll have an eye on who wins.”

To donate, visit the firm’s branches in Headington, Abingdon, Carterton, Thame, Wallingford, or Wantage.