Four local men rediscovered a passion for cycling during lockdown and not content with just personal gain in their fitness levels, they set their sights on helping others by raising money for local charity The Friary, working locally to end homelessness.
Notts to Skegness is a route many of us know by car, but by bike? It’s a long way! From an early start at the Friary Drop-in Centre in West Bridgford on Sunday morning 20th September, Mark, Rob, Joe and Neil got to Skegness Pier around 4.30pm after a couple of refuelling stops and a slightly longer break for a puncture repair.
They raised over £3,000 and motivated by the promise of support through a company charity scheme from Mark’s employer the Logson Group, part of W&R Barnett, received a very generous £1,130 from the Logson Group who actively encourage staff to raise money for charity. This is the second time Mark has asked Logson Group to match funds as he raises awareness about the homelessness charity in West Bridgford.
You can help boost the target of £5K go to: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/notts-skeg
The effect of the pandemic on fundraising for local charities has been stark with many events on hold.
The Friary stayed open serving the homeless throughout lockdown and continues to help those at risk of becoming homeless, but balances concerns too on how their finances will meet demand.
These four fundraisers put in hours of training, initially motivated by the government’s advice to exercise daily during lockdown.
Fitness improved, then Mark had a gear change and set the challenge of cycling to Skegness persuading his mates to focus efforts on raising awareness and fundraising. It was a long ride on Sunday but the challenge to complete the journey was made easier with all the while knowing they will help the Friary to keep going and benefit people in crisis. Maybe this inspires you?
As Ben Talbot Friary’s Chief Exec said:
“Following further donations yesterday, the total is now up to an amazing £3,030 with a further £1,130 to come from Mark’s company. For them to raise £4,160 for the Friary on one event is fantastic for us. It was brilliant to witness you finish the cycle to Skegness knowing you were motivated to raise money to help the homeless. This type of support is going to continue to be so important to us as time goes on.”
If your employer offers a match-funding scheme please get in touch with Helen Jones, Marketing & Communications Officer at the Friary and we’ll help you with ideas on how to fundraise www.the-friary.org.uk
