A TEAM of North-East cyclists braved the elements for an annual event in support of a pioneering autism charity.
The 16 riders, all staff and supporters of the North-East Autism Society (NEAS), have raised nearly £6,000 for the charity by cycling the Tyne Confluence Sportive, which stretched from the village of Bradon Mill to Tynemouth, via Kielder Water.
Fundraising Manager Kevin Meikle, who took part in the 160-mile event, said: "It was a brilliant weekend, despite the rain, and everyone really gave their all to the ride.
“We want to say a huge thanks to our event sponsors: Gama Systems; Slip Tip; Activa; Premier Modular; Cleardata; PWA; Cadman Associates; Almasty; and Cyclefix. Without them, the challenge wouldn’t have been possible.”
The ride was the latest in a series of annual cycling events organised by NEAS. Each rider set themselves the challenge of raising £400 – £10 for each year the Society has been delivering front-line support for autistic children, young people, and adults across the North-East.
NEAS chief executive John Phillipson, who accompanied the riders as a member of the support team, said: “We’re very proud of our riders for putting in such an incredible effort.
“The challenges of the pandemic mean that fundraising is more important than ever, and we couldn’t be more grateful to all our sponsors and supporters for their generosity. They will help us continue providing the vital services that so many families in our region depend on.”
Kevin added: "After what has been a difficult year, it was great to get out on the bike and return to fundraising events.
“We’ve got plenty of events lined up throughout the rest of the year, and it’d be great to see more people getting involved and flying the flag for the Society.
“We always have a great response to our annual cycling sportive, and we'll be starting the planning for next year's event in the coming weeks so we can build on this year's tremendous success.”
To support the team, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/tyneconfluence or for more information on upcoming NEAS events, contact Fundraising Officer Jon Appleton at jon.appleton@ne-as.org.uk.
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