Theale companies tops £3,000 for Reading hospice after 120k cycling challenge

Theale-based wine specialists, Laithwaites, has completed a huge cycle ride to raise money for Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice.

It raised more than £3,000 for the Reading hospice after a team from the company completed a 120k cycle from Gloucester to Theale.

Laithwaites has raised £88,000 for the hospice since 2020, after the death of a much-loved colleague who received care at the hospice.

Laithwaites brand partnership manager, Manny Oliveira, led the team of cyclists.

“It took us six hours and 45 minutes to complete the journey from our distribution centre in Gloucester to our head office in Theale,” he said.

“The highlight of our ride was conquering a very steep hill known as Birdlip Hill, which was a real struggle reaching 28 per cent gradient at its peak.”

He continued: “Along the way, we had the chance to stop at some fantastic places.

“The scenery at Cotswold Water Park was beautiful and we also visited a delightful pub where a cold Coca Cola felt like the best reward, especially considering the scorching weather with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees.

“We're thrilled that we raised an impressive £3,350 for the charity.

“It was a fulfilling experience, combining a physically challenging journey with the satisfaction of contributing to such a great charity.”

Laithwaites CEO, Philippa Strub, added: “We're always happy to find new ways to contribute and we're really proud of this latest effort by the team.”

“We’re so grateful to Laithwaites for their dedicated support since 2020 and their latest fundraising challenge is an incredible achievement,” said the hospice’s senior community fundraiser, Jennifer Patient.

“The funds raised will make a huge difference in helping us to be there when it matters for people going through the most difficult times of their lives.”