Pedalling in support of Steps
CHARITY CYCLISTS FROM COMPANY RIDE 100 MILES TO SKEGNESS
MORE than 100 colleagues have gone on a works outing to the seaside – by bicycle.
The riders from British Gypsum took on the 100-mile trip from the company base in Barrow upon Soar to Skegness.
Led by Phil Johnson, they were raising money for Steps Conductive Education Centre, in Shepshed.
The charity provides a free service for children who have conditions that affect movement such as Down’s syndrome and cerebral palsy.
Phil’s granddaughter, Evelyn, was diagnosed with Down’s syndrome at one week old.
With the support of Steps, Evelyn learned how to walk, communicate and become increasingly independent. She is now in a mainstream school.
Phil said: “The Steps practitioners were brilliant in supporting Evelyn, plus all the family, in helping her to become the best that she can be.
“I wanted to show my immense appreciation by helping Steps to raise the funds it needs so I planned the sponsored bike ride for July 2020.
“Unfortunately, this had to be cancelled.
“It was rescheduled for 2021 but again it had to be cancelled.
“This made me even more determined to ensure that it took place in 2022.”
The riders were cheered on their way by Steps patron Rosemary Conley.
She said: “I cannot tell you how grateful we are. It has been a real challenge after the pandemic to raise funds for this amazing charity that genuinely changes the lives of the special little children.
“Our conductors (specialist nursery teachers) are outstanding in
their skills to help make miracles happen for children with severe motor disorders and delays.”
Steps manager Janet Russell said: “It was a very moving experience, knowing how bitterly disappointed Phil had been in having to cancel the previous two events, then seeing how his determination to make it happen had finally paid off.
“Phil knows Steps must raise £220,000 every year just to cover the running costs. We don’t charge for our service and we don’t receive any government funding.”
With a British Gypsum donation of £5,000, Phil is hoping to raise £20,000 for Steps.
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