Reading cyclist raises thousands for Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice

38-year-old Russell Champion from Reading and Rob Kingsford, 37, took on the 1,000-mile challenge in memory of Russell’s aunt, Rachel Gormley, who was cared for at the hospice before she passed away in March 2019.

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Accompanied by Russell’s dad Steve in the support vehicle, the pair set off from Land’s End in Cornwall on August 22 and crossed the finish line at John O’Groats in Scotland just nine days later.

They made a special stop at Pentire Head in Polzeath, Cornwall, where Rachel’s ashes were scattered.

With support from family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers, the pair raised more than £11,000 which was then tripled by Russell’s employer, independent asset management organisation company RWC Partners.

Rob said: “It’s been physically and emotionally draining, but it was a fun adventure and something we’ll remember forever.

"Thank you so much to everyone who has supported us, helped, donated, cheered us on, pedalled alongside us and been so generous.

"We’re thrilled to have raised this fantastic amount of money for such a good cause close to our hearts.”

With fundraising events cancelled for the rest of this year and no clear indication of how long it will take for Sue Ryder charity shops to return to normal trading, Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice anticipates a funding gap of £1m for this financial year.

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Laura Kell, Head of Hospice Fundraising at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, said: “We’d like to say huge congratulations to Russell and Rob in conquering this challenge, they should be so proud of what they have achieved.

"The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge financial impact on the hospice and the money raised from this challenge will make a real difference in helping us to continue to be there for people when it matters.”