This is the second year the broker has organised such an event. The inaugural ride last year saw the cyclists take on a tour of Gallagher branches across the South West, travelling from the broker’s branch in Gloucester to Swindon, on to Bristol and finishing in Exeter.
This year, cyclists from its Bristol office, located on Temple Way, will be joined by colleagues from across the South West and its wider regional branch network to cycle one of two routes – either a shorter 40 mile ride, or a 100 mile cycle for those looking for a greater challenge. The route will see the riders travel in and around the city of Bristol, taking in the sights of Brunel’s Suspension Bridge and Thornbury Castle. Combined, the team will be cycling a whopping total of nearly 3,000 miles – roughly the distance from Bristol to New York!
Many of the team who are taking part have personal reasons for supporting the cause. Stephen Peacock, based in Gallagher’s Bristol office, will be taking on the 100 mile cycle challenge. Stephen’s parents were both diagnosed with cancer in 2016, with his father sadly losing his battle with prostate cancer later in the year. Stephen wants to raise awareness for the disease but also help future generations with the research required to save lives.
The fundraiser is being backed by the entire Gallagher UK business, with colleagues from across its a 50-strong regional branch network taking part - including members of its UK Executive leadership team as well as Gary Fletcher, Area Managing Director for Gallagher in the South West. Also taking part in the cycle ride will be representatives from some of the company’s key external insurance partners including Aviva, Travelers, QBE & CNA.
Gary Fletcher, who is taking on the 100-mile challenge, comments: “Following the huge success of last year’s bike ride, we chose to run the fundraising event for a second year. Most of us have been touched by cancer and it’s a cause that is close to many of our hearts. That’s why we wanted to encourage as many colleagues to get involved as possible. With just over a week to go, our training and preparation has ramped up and I am already so proud of the inspiring levels of commitment from colleagues across the network.”
With £2,500 already raised through pledges at a Gallagher Branch Managers Leadership Conference, the cycle ride aims to increase the total fundraised to £5,000, which could then be doubled to £10,000 through the ‘Gallagher Gives’ match-funding initiative.
Nikki Collins, Senior Local Fundraising Manager for Cancer Research UK in the South West, comments: “We’re delighted that Gallagher has chosen to take on the bike ride for a second year. We’ve already been overwhelmed with the support received so far, with the teams demonstrating heaps of dedication to fundraise for Cancer Research UK to help beat cancer sooner. A huge thank you to everyone involved. We wish them the very best of luck with their upcoming cycle challenge.”
