Two Domestic & General employees will cycle 400 miles in four days across four countries for young people’s charity The Mix.
One of the volunteers, Brighton resident Jackie Ashwood will have been in training for just four weeks by the time she reaches the start line at the Olympic Park Velodrome. With support of fellow colleague and fitness fanatic Steve Mcmenamin, Jackie has undergone intensive training and a crash course in how to ride long-distance. She was also gifted a bike from Evans Cycles especially for the event.
Jackie said: “Not only did I not own a bike until a few of weeks ago, I hadn’t ridden a bike for years. But it’s true what they say – you never forget. I’m over the moon Evans has given me a bike, as well as wanting to do something good for charity I think they might have felt a bit sorry for me and my lack of experience on two wheels!”
Formerly known as Get Connected, The Mix is a UK-wide, free and confidential helpline service for young people. Each year the charity supports at least 250,000 young people to find the help they need with a range of issues such as homelessness, self-harm, bullying and drugs. More than 80 percent of those who have used the helpline say their lives improved after contacting the charity.
The Mix gifted Domestic & General two places on its annual Ride 999 event in thanks for the company’s support over the last year resulting in £140,000 being raised for the charity. An employee from the company’s Wimbledon office will accompany Jackie on the challenge.
Chris Martin, CEO of The Mix, said: “Domestic & General has been hugely supportive of The Mix throughout our year-long partnership. It’s incredible that the dedicated staff have raised £140k to support our essential work. This year we have reached 1.7 million under 25s through our helpline, counselling and digital services. Next year we hope to reach 2 million, this donation will help us achieve that.”
Volunteers will give up the May Bank Holiday weekend to cycle across Europe and raise additional funds. Each day they will burn up to 8,333 calories – the equivalent to 32 mars bars, and spend at least 9 hours on their bikes.
Jackie, who works from Domestic & General’s Brighton office overlooking Churchill Square, has singlehandedly raised over £2000 and is calling for the support of the people of Brighton and Hove to help reach her stretch target of £3000.
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jackie-Ashwood2.