Sleights was the start and finish point when two local men put the wheels in motion for raising nearly £3,000 to be split between two Whitby charities helping the town’s children and adults with disabilities and hidden impairments.
Local fundraiser Rob Wilson and pal Gary Crossland completed a 100-mile charity cycle ride, in July taking on a challenging route which took them through the Esk Valley, Goathland, Pickering, Old Malton, Scarborough and Harwood Dale before returning to finish at Perry’s Garden Centre in Sleights.
There, they were welcomed by family, friends, supporters and representatives from both WHISH (Whitby Hidden Impairments Support & Help) and Whitby DAG (Disability Action Group) who were both recently presented with cheques for £1,477 each.
Rob said: “I always get enormous satisfaction in trying to raise funds for smaller local charities; the smaller organisations need the funding to continue their great work around our local communities. I do hope the amount raised helps members from both charities enjoy some quality time together. “
Steve Bremner, WHISH Chairperson, said: “When we heard Rob had chosen WHISH to be one of the recipients of this year’s Annual Charity Bike Ride, we were thrilled. Rob has conducted charity bike rides for some years now and has gained a large following as a result.
“This means that the occasion is doubly special for WHISH, not only because of the generous donation but for the exposure he has given us.”
Mike Hutchinson, DAG Chairperson, added: “On behalf of everyone at Whitby DAG, I would like to offer our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Rob for completing this incredible 100-mile challenge. Taking on something of this scale to support local charities takes real commitment, determination and generosity.
“We are enormously grateful to Rob, to everyone who sponsored and supported him, and to Perry’s Plants for welcoming him at the finish. The money raised will help us to provide practical support and services to people in our local community. Rob’s efforts are a wonderful example of the difference one person can make.”
WHISH is a parent-led small charity which is self-funded and supports 200 children and young people in the Whitby & Esk Valley rural area who have a disability, Special Educational Need or Hidden Impairment (HI).
Whitby DAG is a user-led organisation, led by a board of trustees, many of whom are disabled people or carers. Whitby DAG helps disabled people live as independently as possible, making informed choices through access to services and information.
