Great Shefford cycling couple raise nearly £10k for NHS and children's charity

A Great Shefford couple are embarking on a tandem cycling challenge to raise money for the NHS after their young daughter received some outstanding care.

Victoria and George Hanbury will cycle from County Durham to Hungerford, a distance of over 260 miles. They will set off on Thursday, April 21, with the hope of completing the challenge within three days.

The money raised, which is already nearing £10,000, is going towards the COSMIC Charity which supports the children’s intensive care unit at St Mary’s Hospital in London.

Mrs Hanbury said: “This charity is incredibly close to our hearts and one we will forever be grateful for.

“We would love to spread as much awareness as we can about our challenge so we can raise as much as possible to thank the incredible doctors and nurses.”

Just 18 days after the Hanbury's daughter Tiggy was born last October, she stopped breathing while her body was trying to fight off RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

Tiggy was initially treated at Swindon Hospital before being transferred to St Mary’s where she spent a week recovering.

Mrs Hanbury also said: “She was put on life support and treated by the most amazing team of doctors and nurses to save her life.”

Luckily, Tiggy pulled through her frightening ordeal and she is now doing really well with her parents at home.

At the time of writing, the Hanburys have already raised £9,426, 94% of their initial £10,000 goal.

They have received plenty of support and donations from friends, family and local people and these donations will hopefully continue to roll in before they undertake the cycling challenge next month.

To find out more about the fundraising challenge and to donate, visit this website https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gthanbury