Dan Putland, Daniel Roffey and Gayle from the Play Team outside the Royal Alex
A keen cyclist from the fulfilment and delivery company ILG, took on a 160-mile cycle over 5 days in aid of Rockinghorse.
Daniel Roffey, Learning and Development Coordinator for ILG, one of our corporate supporters, wanted to find a way of supporting Rockinghorse along with engaging colleagues from the various ILG sites throughout the UK.
He then hit upon the idea of creating the Teddy Bear Trail, where he would undertake a cycle starting from the company’s Northampton site then visiting the Aylesbury, Egham, Horley, Gatwick, East Grinstead, Burgess Hill branches before arriving at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton 5 days later.
Daniel’s cycle route
At each of the stop-off points, along with collecting donations Dan also encouraged staff to donate teddy bears which could be given to the Play Team at the hospital for the children to enjoy.
Daniel started training around six weeks before the cycle itself, concentrating on building up his leg muscles as he had a long way to go before being fit enough! Then, to make sure he gave maximum exposure to the charity, he also dressed in Rockinghorse branded clothing throughout the ride.
Daniel said, “My route certainly had some scenery! Modern towns, pretty villages and the views were spectacular although there were some roads which required my full concentration!
“On the last day, I was joined by Dan Putland who also wanted to help Rockinghorse and take on a cycling challenge. To ensure we stood out Dan and I wore tutu’s which did the trick!”
When the duo finally reached the hospital, they were met by Sarah from Rockinghorse and Gayle from the Play Team at the hospital, who all congratulated them on completing their challenge and gladly accepted the 30 teddys that they had collected throughout the trip.
After the cycle, Daniel was tired but pleased with what he had achieved, “Now that I am back, I am a little sore and sunburnt but really pleased I completed the ride and so proud of all ILG staff who came together and donated so many teddies for the children who need them.”
Amanda Hetherington, Corporate Engagement Manager at Rockinghorse, said, “It’s always wonderful to have support from the Sussex business community and we really value organisations like ILG for their fundraising.
“But seeing people like Daniel and Dan going above and beyond to not only support us but engage their colleagues with their fundraising, is amazing!
“Thanks so much to them and to every single person who cheered them along, gave them teddy bears or donated to Rockinghorse. We just hope their legs have recovered!”
If you’ve been inspired by Daniel’s challenge and would like to organise your own fundraising event, just send us an email.
