A team of cyclists is celebrating after completing a 600 mile charity cycle ride.
The Cycle GB ride started in Glasgow and ended at Benenden Hospital, at Benenden, in Kent. One group of riders went from Glasgow to Benenden’s head office in York and the second group cycled from York to Kent, over four days, aiming to raise £50,000 for the Benenden Charitable Trust and SAMH, the Scottish Association for Mental Health.
Riders who travelled from York to Kent included Benenden Hospital’s Medical Director John Giles, Project Manager Colin Barton, Information Manager Lee Chittenden and Technical Engineer Derek Rose.
Thom Craigen, Charitable Trust Manager at Benenden who organised the event said: “It’s been a huge challenge for everyone involved and we are so proud of all the team who have really given everything they had to make it a success! We’ve had some highs and lows over the journey but it’s been a fantastic experience for us all.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. The money we’ve raised will be helping to support two fantastic causes and it will really help to make a difference to lots of people.”
All money raised from the events will be split equally between the two charities: Benenden Charitable Trust which helps those experiencing financial difficulties or distress because of sickness, infirmity, disability or any medical conditions - and SAMH which offers support, training and recovery for those experiencing mental health problems.
Major sponsors on board with the event included property and construction company Wilmott Dixon – who are carrying out a multi-million pound redevelopment at Benenden Hospital, injury rehabilitation specialists Rehabworks and insurance brokers Keegan and Pennykid.
Other sponsors included publishing agency Think, printing company Spellman Walker, Hatmill Supply Chain Consultancy and creative marketing agency Space Creative, with support also being offered from a range of business including sports nutrition company Chia Charge, cycling experts Skinny Tyres and Mandrill Media.
Support also came from Marriott Hotels in the UK, who helped with accommodation for the riders across various stages of the cycle and Virgin Trains East Coast who provided travel to and from the start and finish points.
Published on 04 October 2016