Wheels of Hope cycle challenge in Inverness shatters mileage target of Land’s End to John O’Groats
A mammoth charity cycle fundraiser which saw participants take to spin bikes in Inverness shattered its ambitious mileage target.
Organisers of Wheels of Hope, which took place in the Eastgate Centre into the weekend, saw people take to spin bikes in a bid to cycle 874 miles - the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats - to raise funds for Highland Action for Little Ones (Halo).
And, although the final total that will be winging its way to the charity is still being counted, organisers were delighted to see the cyclists surge way past their initial mileage go.
For they didn’t just hit 874 miles, they sailed so far past it that they came close to reaching 1200, with a final mileage of 1160 before the two-day event was over.
The Eastgate Shopping Centre said the fundraiser “proved to be an extraordinary success”, with the cyclists already passing their original 874 mile target by 11am on day two.
“Motivated by the incredible support and the cause they were riding for, they decided to continue cycling to raise as much money as possible for charity. By the end of the day, they had collectively achieved a remarkable total of 1160 miles,” said a spokesperson.
READ MORE: ‘Wheels of Hope’ cycle challenge organisers delighted with success of day one
The event was further enlivened by free face painting provided by Louise Innes from Happy Faces and musical performances by Amy Mullen. The Halo team was also on hand, providing fruit, sweets, and information to keep the cyclists and supporters energized and informed, ensuring a vibrant and engaging atmosphere in the centre throughout the event.
The success will mean a cash windfall for Halo, which works to help disadvantaged children by providing essential support and resources - such as providing families with clothing, shoes, nappies, baby equipment, school clothing, and basic essentials
Mel Thomson, founder of Halo, expressed her gratitude: “The dedication and enthusiasm shown by all the cyclists and supporters have been truly inspiring. Surpassing our mileage target so quickly is a testament to the community's spirit and commitment. We are thrilled with the outcome and eagerly await announcing the total funds raised. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this incredible event.”
The total amount raised will be announced by Halo later this week. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the participants, supporters, and donors who encouraged, cheered, and contributed over the two days, making "Wheels of Hope" a resounding success.
Spin cycle participants during Wheels for Hope included a diverse group of enthusiastic cyclists such as Euan Gunn (Manager at Chisholm Hunter), brother duo Iain Rodgers (Eastgate Cleaning Crew) and Kenny Rodgers, Alasdair Sutherland, Halo founder Mel Thomson and her daughters Lauren and Ashley, Damon Purdie (Highlife Highland), Catherine Reynolds (Seaforth Respite Care Centre), Sarah Purdie (Marketing Manager at Eastgate), representatives from Highland Business Women including Iris Thompson-Burton, Karen Simpson, Natalie Bruce, Emma Glass, and Eilidh Maclean from Inverness Netball Club.
For more information or to make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/highlandactionforlittleones or contact Mel Thomson halohighlands@gmail.com.
