Charity Cyclists Arrive at Westover Jaguar after Uphill Struggle
5 September 2011
Ten charity cyclists - peddling their way from Solihull (in the West Midlands) to Paris, to raise funds for children’s charity, the NSPCC - popped into visit one of their sponsors, Westover Jaguar on West Quay Road. They enjoyed refreshments in the showroom before heading for the ferry, which took them from Poole Harbour to Cherbourg on day three of their challenging six day journey.
The team - made up of employees from Jaguar Land Rover’s headquarters and automotive components manufacturer, Brose Limited – reported having dealt with four punctures, two broken spokes and two falls on their journey so far. They’ve also had to call for one replacement bike.
Despite testing times, the team has already raised in excess of its £15,000 target for the NSPCC (the nominated 2011 charity for both companies). They have been in training for eight months, concentrating on maximising their cycling strength as well as their fund-raising capacity.
Team member Steve Wilkins commented: “It’s been hard work but great fun so far and the fact that we’re raising more than we expected is definitely spurring us on. The ride from Swindon to Poole was the toughest section so far – it felt long one never-ending hill – but it’s satisfying to be on the journey at last, rather than just training for it! I’m told that there’s a particularly gruelling day ahead of us in France though, which will see us pedal across 90 miles of surprisingly hilly terrain.
“We’re all much looking forward to arriving in Paris, despite our sore bottoms and aching legs. We haven’t been put off yet and, in fact, we’re already thinking about next year’s charity ride. We’re currently discussing the possibility of cycling from John O’Groats to Land’s End.”
Westover Group Director, Paul Collins, said: “We were thrilled that the boys were able to spare half an hour to visit us before heading across the water to France. I know everyone here was pleased to welcome them to the dealership and to show their support for the team’s NSPCC fundraising effort.”
