Employees from Hull-based engineering firm Spencer Group have completed a 100-mile sponsored cycle ride, raising vital funds for their charity of the year, Teenage Cancer Trust. The company has now surpassed £8,000 in its ongoing fundraising campaign for the organisation, which provides specialist care and support for young people with cancer.
Dubbed the “Tour de Spencer,” the charity ride saw a team of 10 employees take on a gruelling route that spanned both sides of the Humber. Setting off from Hull, the cyclists travelled along the north bank of the Humber to Goole before circling back via the south bank and crossing the iconic Humber Bridge. The event is part of a wider campaign by Spencer Group to raise funds for Teenage Cancer Trust throughout 2024.
The ride was organised by Trainee CAD Technician Liam Bowring, who explained why the cause is particularly close to his heart. “I’ve just turned 20, and cancer is something that’s affected a number of my friends. Teenage Cancer Trust offers support to young people going through this, and it’s a cause that really resonates with me,” Bowring said. “We wanted to do something challenging to raise awareness and funds, and we’re thrilled with how many people joined us for the ride.”
Each participant was encouraged to raise £100 in sponsorship, with the team exceeding their goal by raising over £1,200 collectively. Despite encountering a few obstacles along the way, including three punctures and mixed weather conditions, the entire team completed the full 100 miles.
Bowring added: “It was a long day, and some of the team were really tired by the end, but I’m incredibly proud of everyone who took part. The fact we raised so much money for such an important cause made it all worthwhile.”
The 100-mile cycle is just one of many fundraising activities Spencer Group has undertaken this year in support of Teenage Cancer Trust. The company has hosted events ranging from an auction and a Wimbledon-themed tennis tournament to a Fantasy Football League. Earlier in the year, 13 employees raised £1,200 for the charity by taking part in the Hull 10k.
The Teenage Cancer Trust was selected as Spencer Group’s charity of the year after a staff member nominated the organisation, having personally seen the support it provided for a friend’s son who was battling cancer. The charity offers care and emotional support for young cancer sufferers and their families, ensuring they do not face their diagnosis alone.
A spokesperson from Teenage Cancer Trust expressed gratitude for Spencer Group’s efforts: “We are really grateful and proud of Spencer Group for everything they are doing to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust. Their fundraising helps ensure that young people with cancer get the specialist support they need.”
With the company continuing its year-long fundraising campaign, Spencer Group employees remain committed to supporting the charity. Their efforts aim to raise awareness and contribute to the critical services offered by Teenage Cancer Trust.
