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Fundraising Story
'Tour de NEAS' challenge raises almost £8,000 for charity
A team of cyclists raised nearly £8,000 for a charity’s ‘life-changing’ project, after successfully completing a multi-day ride from London to Paris.
Eight cyclists took part in the ‘Tour de NEAS’ a 240-mile cycle ride between capital cities organised by the North East Autism Society.
Leading them was the charity’s former CEO, John Phillipson, who coined the challenge as a farewell fundraiser after 21-years at the helm.
“I was persuaded to get my old bike out and take part in this ride as a farewell retirement fundraiser, and I’ve been absolutely blown away by people’s generosity,” John said.
“The support shown not just for myself, but for the rest of the team as well, really helped keep us going through the rainy and windy days we had in Normandy.”
The team set off from the London Eye on Friday 28th September, making their way to Portsmouth for an overnight ferry to Caen in Normandy.
From there they took in the sights as they made their way through Normandy, including an early stop in Caen at Pegasus Bridge, a crossing famously seized by British Paratroopers in the opening minutes of D-Day.
Despite facing difficult weather conditions cycling through Normandy, the team persevered to finish the second day of the challenge in Dreux.
The challenge finished with the final push into Paris, taking in the Palace of Versailles and the Eiffel Tower, with the team wearing the challenge’s gold Tour de France inspired jerseys, featuring the event sponsors.
LM Global, the challenge’s headline sponsor, has backed NEAS’ cycle challenge for four years running.
Terry Lewis, Director at LM Global, said: “The dedication and commitment shown by the riders taking on this challenge was truly inspiring.
“We were incredibly proud to sponsor the North East Autism Society’s cycle challenge for the fourth consecutive year. Supporting such a fantastic cause is something that means a great deal to everyone at LM Global, and we were honoured to play a part in helping make the event a success.”
Alongside LM Global, the challenge was sponsored by Fleet, Direct Global, Activa, Turner & Townsend, and Horizon Group, whose support covered event running costs, ensuring that all money raised goes directly to NEAS’ services.
John said: “The incredibly kind support we’ve received will go towards the Growing Futures appeal at New Warlands, providing opportunities for autistic people to train and work in hospitality and horticulture within a purpose-built café, cider mill, and marketplace.
“It’s life-changing work, and I couldn’t be more grateful to everyone who has donated.”
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