Singleton Birch cyclists raise £8,000 with annual bike ride

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1st November 2019
An annual cycling challenge taken on by staff from the UK’s largest independent lime producer has raised £8,000 in five years for Lindsey Lodge Hospice.

The bike ride by a group of cyclists at Barnetby-based Singleton Birch, was started by staff member Steve Price, after his wife Jo’s father was cared for at the Burringham Road Hospice. Together with Jo, who now works at Lindsey Lodge as an Advanced Assistant, Steve has organised and planned the challenge each year, as well as taking part, with Jo taking on the role of driver.  

Steve said: “Lindsey Lodge Hospice holds a special place in so many people’s hearts. As well as touching the lives of my family, Singleton Birch former CEO, Peter Hibbard, passed away there, which inspired other members of staff to get involved and show their support.

“And as well as raising sponsorship for the Hospice, we hope we’ve also helped raise awareness about the important work of Lindsey Lodge Hospice.”

Each year, an eight-strong Singleton Birch team from across the company take on the cycling challenge. This year’s route saw them set off from Helensburgh on a three-day bike ride through forests, tow paths and old railway lines to reach their final destination in Dunbar, the birth place of naturalist and author, and ‘Founder of the National Parks’, John Muir.  

Jo said: “Year-on year, the men push themselves further, giving up their weekends with their families to go and support Lindsey Lodge.

“The days are long and tiring, 2018 was particularly tough due to extreme rain throughout the trip. The men were soaked to the skin and broken, but bravely carried on and completed the ride, because they were so determined to raise funds for the Hospice.”

She added: “A huge thank you also goes to Singleton Birch who have always given us amazing support by paying for the cycling shirts and funding the transport and fuel for every trip.

The bike rides take nine months to plan, so as soon as one is out the way, Steve and Jo start planning next year’s ride already, which will be Stockport to Hornsea in 2020.

Lindsey Lodge Hospice Fundraiser Kirsty Walker said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has taken part and supported this annual event.

“Singleton Birch and their staff are great supporters of the Hospice and we really appreciate everything that they do.

“Giving up weekends and precious family time to take on a gruelling bike ride every year is such a kind gesture and every penny the team has raised will go towards providing the best possible care for our patients and their families.”