A team of dedicated cyclists has successfully raised a phenomenal sum exceeding £100,000 for a vital local cause. The funds were generated through Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care's inaugural Pedal to Paris challenge, a gruelling four-day cycling event.
The Journey from Farnham to the French Capital
The epic adventure began at the hospice's site in Farnham, where 32 riders were cheered off by a crowd of well-wishers. Their ambitious route spanned a total of 333 kilometres. The first leg took them through Lewes to Newhaven, where they caught a ferry to Dieppe in France. From there, the team cycled through Forges-les-Eaux and Cergy-Pontoise before their triumphant arrival in Paris four days after setting off.
A United Team with Personal Motivations
The peloton was a true community effort, featuring hospice staff, its leadership, and corporate supporters. Among the riders were Dr Fiona Barley and corporate fundraising manager Sarah Blake from Phyllis Tuckwell. The charity's newly appointed chair of trustees, Dr Robert Laing, also took part, with his term officially beginning on the second evening of the ride.
Every participant had their own powerful reason for joining the challenge. Some were fundraising in memory of a loved one cared for by the hospice, while others were staff or volunteers passionately supporting their cause. The group included nine cyclists from Beard Construction, the company building the new hospice, and a representative from corporate supporter Hi-Speed Services.
Fiona Chapman, event fundraiser at Phyllis Tuckwell, praised the incredible spirit. "Thank you so much to everyone who took part in this amazing challenge," she said. "There was such a wonderful atmosphere and such good spirit throughout the whole cycle ride, and it was really moving to see everyone complete the last leg together and arrive at the finish line as one big team."
Destination: A New State-of-the-Art Hospice
Every penny raised is being directed straight into the construction of Phyllis Tuckwell's new hospice facility. This state-of-the-art building is scheduled to open next spring in Farnham. Once operational, it will significantly enhance the charity's capacity, enabling it to support thousands more local people each year who are living with an advanced or terminal illness, such as cancer.
The success of the event relied on strong logistical support. The non-profit organisation Cycle4Good (C4G) planned and managed the entire trip, providing guidance, support, and bike maintenance throughout. Hi-Speed Services generously provided a van on the final day to transport all the bicycles back to Farnham for the weary but elated riders.
This landmark fundraising achievement marks a significant step towards realising a modern, purpose-built hospice that will serve the communities of Farnham, Guildford, and Camberley for years to come.
