Cavanna cyclists raise £11,000 as they are inspired by stories of heartbreak

Fundraising cyclists from Torbay-based Cavanna were inspired to keep pedalling on a gruelling 225-mile bike ride by the moving stories of some of their fellow riders who had lost children to illness.
A team of eight cyclists completed the St Austell to Bristol Ride for Precious Lives over three days in the summer in aid of their Charity of the Year, Children’s Hospice South West.
Ben Rowntree, Land Manager at Cavanna Homes, said it was the heartbreaking stories of some of the other riders who took part in the event which brought home the importance of the charity and the value of raising money to support its work. The Cavanna Homes team is well on its way to raising £11,000.
“In all there were 110 riders who took part, eight of whom were sadly people who have had to make use of the facilities provided by Children’s Hospice South West and had lost children themselves,” Ben said.
“When you are riding along, and at the overnight stops, you get to speak to other people who have lost nieces, nephews, cousins…It demonstrates how important the work of the three hospices is and how much they need this funding.”
In total the event raised more than £300,000 for Children’s Hospice South West which relies on fundraising, donations and bequests for 90 per cent of its income. Ben said: "Events like this are key for them. Knowing you are helping such an important charity makes the whole thing worthwhile. Three days on a bike in all weathers is nothing compared to what some people have to go through.”
The riders set off from Little Harbour and arrived at Charlton Farm on Sunday. Ben said the Cavanna Homes team agreed that the first leg – 77 miles from the start at St Austell to Barnstaple – was the most challenging.
The Cavanna Homes team included keen weekend cyclists, as well as those who take the sport more seriously and at least one rider who had taken up cycling just six months earlier – and only began training three months before the start.
Michael Newman, Cavanna Homes Director of Land and Design, made the whole trip on a bicycle he has had since his teens. He restored the bike specifically for the event and said it had been 'running beautifully' despite having just five gears and brakes that proved challenging on some of the faster descents.
Daniela Hopkins, Area Fundraiser for CHSW said: “Team Cavanna inspired us with their determination and enthusiasm. Cavanna Homes employees once again challenged themselves to take on this epic bike ride setting themselves an amazing fundraising target and it’s been a privilege to support them throughout with all their fundraising efforts.   Their significant support of Children’s Hospice South West and the money they continue to raise, helps our families get the vital care and support they need”.