Gavin Wilkinson and Sarah Hughes, Datitude's co-founders and directors, have completed an incredible cycling challenge to raise funds for the cancer charity, Macmillan Cancer Support.
Following a cancer diagnosis that came completely out of the blue earlier in the year, Gavin and Sarah wanted to do something with their daughters to thank Macmillan for the support they’ve received and raise awareness of the important work they do for patients, survivors, and family members.
The Cycling Challenge
As an avid cyclist, Gavin chose the Way of the Roses, one of Britain’s most iconic coast-to-coast routes. He persuaded his somewhat reluctant family that this was something they wanted to do too!
Donning matching Macmillan jerseys, they set off on Friday 13th August from Morecambe in Lancashire, their journey taking them through the historic cities of Lancaster and York, as well as lesser-known towns and villages like Pateley Bridge, Ripon, and Settle, finishing with a joyful descent into Bridlington two days later.
They were in the saddle for 24 hours, pedalling 176 miles and climbing a massive 10,000 feet in elevation (equivalent to scaling Germany's tallest mountain Zugspitze!).
Gavin and Sarah have been blown away by the messages of support and generosity shown. To date, they have raised over £6,600 (plus over £1,300 in gift aid) from 100+ supporters, including some well-wishers they met along the way.
They have more than trebled their fundraising target of £2,000 and are incredibly grateful for all the donations, as well as being able to do this challenge in the first place.
On completing the challenge, Gavin said “I’ve done many tougher cycling events over the years, but with the combination of family involvement, massive and humbling support, and coming back to fitness... this one stands out from them all. Thank you to everyone who supported us.
We’d also like to acknowledge the incredible support given by Doug and Bernie Quinn, exceptional friends who not only cycled the toughest part of the route with us but drove our car across the country and kept us smiling throughout."
About Macmillan Cancer Support
You can find out more about Macmillan and the work they do, including support and information available, here: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support
JustGiving Fundraising Page - "Wilkies and the Way of the Roses"
If you would like to donate, click here https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sarah-gavin-grace-katie for their fundraising page.
