Bike Ride Raises a Whopping £29,000 Before Cyclists Even Set-Off

A popular charity bike ride has already raised a massive £29,000 for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine – just days before cyclists don their helmets for the big event.

Kind-hearted sponsors have helped the cyclists taking part in this year’s Anderson Bike Ride 2022 on Saturday, June 11, close in on their target of £30,000.

The event is run by Anderson, one of the UK’s leading construction and property developers.  All money raised this year will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee Ukraine Appeal – which supports charities in Ukraine and neighbouring countries who are helping refugees and displaced people.

The last ride in 2019 saw 150 riders covering 55 miles – and in total they raised more than £50,000 for the Anderson Foundation.

Having been forced to pause during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the ride is making a welcome return this year – and sponsorship is on track to ensure it’s one of the best years yet!

The ride starts at Anderson’s head office in Chelmsford, and heads out across the Essex countryside, through picturesque villages on a rural route.

Riders will arrive at 8.30am for a briefing at 9am, with the first teams leaving at 9.20am. There will be four stops enroute where food and refreshments will be supplied.

Mark Anderson, Chairman of Anderson, said: “What an amazing milestone – to have already nearly hit our £30,000 target for the DEC Ukraine Appeal is outstanding but we would love to raise even more for such a deserving cause. Thank you to everyone who has signed up and those who have sponsored the riders. We’re delighted our bike ride is back again, it promises to be a great day out riding through the beautiful Essex countryside, while raising money for such an important cause.”

Senior Site Manager Ross Parmenter, who has signed up with a team of colleagues and friends, said: “I’ve taken part in this event every year, it is a brilliant day which raises money for great charities.

“I’m looking forward to seeing many colleagues and their families again after the past few years.

“It will be great to raise a beer with everyone at the end. See you all on the start line!”

The annual bike ride is not a race – and the winning team is not the first team back. There will be a themed quiz carried out throughout the day with the finishing line at Springfield Lodge. The winners will be crowned following the marking of the quiz.

Friends and family are invited to welcome the riders’ triumphant return and celebrate with a BBQ and a well-stocked bar as well as bouncy castles to occupy younger guests. There is still time to enter – anyone interested in taking part or finding out more can contact Leila Stammers on 07464 498219 or email l.stammers@andersongroup.co.uk