Cyclists Raise More Than £416,000 For GroceryAid
More than 220 enthusiastic cyclists from across the grocery industry have raised over £416,000 for grocery colleagues in need.
They have cycled over 777km through some of the most stunning locations and cities as part of GroceryAid’s two cycle challenges – Coast to Coast Cycle and London to Brussels.
In July, the Coast to Coast Cycle saw 70 riders cycle their way from the beautiful Georgian coastal town of Whitehaven, into the city of Harrogate before finishing at the seaside resort of Whitby. During the three-day ride, cyclists ascended an impressive 5,426m and raised more than £189,000 for GroceryAid.
Jonny McQuarrie, Chief Operating Officer, Booker and Coast to Coast Committee chair, said: “The Coast to Coast Cycle is an exceptional event that is so well organised, which means you don’t need to think about anything other than cycling. It is a fantastic opportunity to raise vital funds and awareness of our industry charity whilst forming lifelong connections”.
The Charity’s London to Brussels Cycle took place on 7th – 9th September, with 152 riders spending three days pedalling to Brussels for the first time. Cycling part of the North Sea Cycle Route, across the Delta Works and up the famous Nokerberg, before finishing at the iconic Atomium. Riders cycled canal paths and cobblestone streets, from the Hook of Holland, into the stunning city of Bruges before finishing in one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, Brussels, and raising more than £226,000 for GroceryAid.
James Waddy, Category Director – Bakery, Dairy and Local, Tesco plc and GroceryAid committee chair, who completed the London to Brussels cycle challenge said: ““I love the GroceryAid cycles. The sense of accomplishment is awesome, and it is achievable for most people with just a little bit of training……. regardless of how much or little cycling you have done in the past. The GroceryAid team do a great job organising the event, so you can focus on raising money for such a fantastic cause and connecting with colleagues across the industry in a really informal way.”
Lindsey Kendal, Away From Home Sales Director, Kellogg’s and committee member, who completed the London to Brussels Cycle Challenge said: The GroceryAid cycles are just fantastic. The London to Brussels route has been brilliant this year enabling a broader mix of abilities and greater representation of girls taking on the challenge. It’s a great opportunity to network across the industry whilst putting wellbeing at the heart of it. What could be better than being active, in stunning surroundings and building great relationships. With exceptional organisation, all you need to do is turn up, pedal and have fun…let GroceryAid take care of everything else!
The event was sponsored by Arla, A.G. Barr, Bestway, Booker, Coca-Cola, Glanbia, Ginsters, Hilton Foods, Huel, Molson Coors, Moju drinks, Natures Heart, Pukka Pies, Reckitt, Saputo, Shott Beverages, ThreeSixty Design, Vitamin Well and Warburtons.
Tickets are now on sale for both of next year’s cycle challenges. Coast to Coast: 18th – 20th July 2024 – £2,100 per rider book now here. And, London to Brussels: 5th – 7th September 2024 – £2,350 per rider. Book now here.
