A team of 16 riders braved the elements over the weekend as they took part in our third annual cycling event - the Tyne Confluence Sportive - in support of the North East Autism Society.

The group of riders, made up of NEAS staff and supporters, kicked off the two-day fundraising challenge in the village of Bardon Mill on Saturday, August 21st.

The 160-mile route was the most difficult yet, with the group taking in local sights such as the highest market town in England and Hadrian’s Wall, before travelling to Kielder Water near the Scottish Borders, and finishing up in Tynemouth on Sunday evening.

Fundraising Manager Kevin Meikle represented NEAS at the event alongside Bid Writer Mark Hall and Ed Maddison from the training team. While our CEO John Phillipson was also on hand on the day as part of the support team accompanying the riders, along with a number of other Society employees who kindly volunteered their time to cheer on the cyclists. 

A huge thanks also goes out to our event sponsors Gama Systems, Slip Tip, Activa, Premier Modular, Cleardata, PWA, Cadman Associates, Almasty and Cyclefix, for making the challenge possible.

"It was a brilliant weekend, despite the rain, and everyone really gave their all to the ride," Kevin said.

We always have a great response to our annual cycling sportive, and we'll be starting the planning for next year's event in the coming weeks so we can build on this year's success.

So far the riders have raised almost £6,000 for NEAS' vital services, with each rider setting themselves the challenge of raising £400 - £10 for each year that the Society has been delivering front-line care and support for autistic children, young people and adults across the North-east.

Kevin added: "After what has been a difficult year, it was great to get out on the bike and return to fundraising events.

We’ve got plenty of events lined up throughout the rest of the year, and it’d be great to see more NEAS staff getting involved and flying the flag for the Society.

If you'd like to show your support for the team, you can still donate by clicking the link below. Or if you’d like to organise an event of your own, email Fundraising Officer Jon Appleton at [email protected].