CYCLISTS have been raising funds for a North-East charity by biking the length of the region.
Thirteen supporters of the North East Autism Society (NEAS) raised more than £9,000 by cycling 150 miles across the area they serve, from Berwick-Upon-Tweed, to Teesside.
The Tweed to Tees Cycle included supporters from several companies which have pledged to support the critical work undertaken by NEAS, including NG Bailey, Total Business Group, Dualmech Ltd, the NHS, Jelf, Lookers VW, and Durham County Council.
They were joined by the charity’s chief executive, John Phillipson, trustee, John Hodgson, and fundraising manager, Kevin Meikle. The group has so far raised £9,599.51.
The two-day journey began at Berwick Upon Tweed, in Northumberland – the most northern place that the Society’s work covers – before heading 90 miles south over twelve hours to an overnight stop at Newcastle.
The team set off the next morning through Low Fell, up to the top of Lanchester Bank, eventually reaching the finish line in Teesside.
Kevin said: “Climbing Lanchester Bank was probably the hardest part, but it felt good to pick up some speed again on the way down towards Ferryhill.
“By the end, we were working well together, and everyone did fantastically well. As much of a challenge as it was, we were all buzzing by the end.
“There was a fantastic atmosphere and team spirit from start to finish. We all worked together to not only raise funds, but to create awareness of the work we do, and promote acceptance for autistic people.
“We hope to build on this success next year, and scale it to become an annual feature, getting bigger and better each year.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the North East Austim Society’s big cycle ride in 2020 is asked to contact Kevin Meikle on kevin.meikle@ne-as.org.uk.