An ScS employee has raised nearly £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of a colleague.
John New, an IT Infrastructure Specialist at the Sunderland-based furniture and carpet retailer, wanted to donate to the charity that had supported his friend and team-mate Martin Perryman, who sadly passed away in October 2016 after a short but brave battle with cancer.
John took part in the Deloitte RAB (Ride Across Britain) Land’s End to John O’Groats bike ride in September in honour of Martin, who was a keen cyclist and often commuted to work by bike from his home in Stanley. The challenge involved cycling 980 miles which John completed in nine days.
John said: “The Ride Across Britain is an event that has been on my radar now for around 10 years, but for one reason or another I’ve never managed to commit to it. Martin was no stranger to cycling and we shared a number of long rides over the years, with some cracking memories along the way that will stay with us forever. He was always ‘King of the hills’ and I’m sure her would have relished the challenge.
John added: “I’m delighted to present this donation to Macmillan as the provide incredible support, helping to pick up the pieces and get on with life once a diagnosis is made.”
Erin Fairley, Macmillan fundraising manager for Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside commented: “We are delighted with the results of John’s fundraising efforts, and the support given to him by ScS. Without individuals and companies supporting Macmillan in this way, we would not be able to reach the growing number of people who need support today.
“Life with cancer is still life, after 100 years of supporting people with cancer Macmillan know what is most important, we treat everyone as a person, not just a patient. The money raised by John and his colleagues will allow us to help everyone living with cancer find their best way through, from the moment of diagnosis, so they’re able to live life as fully as they can.”
In addition to the sponsorship, additional funds were raised by the company and colleagues through a Macmillan Coffee Morning event at the ScS Sunderland head office as well as a bake sale and charity bingo event.