Charity

Keen cyclist Carl to ride 100km as Sutton Coldfield friends raise funds for NHS workers

- 26 Apr 20

A keen cyclist who works at a national housebuilder will join a group of friends from Sutton Coldfield taking part in a 100km bike ride to raise thousands of pounds to support NHS frontline workers.

Carl Watkins, technical co-ordinator at Bovis Homes – part of the newly-formed Vistry Group – will take part in the 12-strong team challenge, starting in Walmley, as they aim to hit a £2,000 target.

The group, which hopes to ride in July, are raising the funds for NHS Charities Together and formed after the organiser was inspired by his partner, a nurse who is working in a coronavirus ward.

Carl, who is based at Vistry Mercia’s Staffordshire office and has worked for the company for five years, said: “Our 100km cycle ride challenge is something we can really look forward to at the moment and give back to all those NHS staff risking their lives.

“We’re all a great group of friends with a varied range of fitness. Some don’t even own a bike yet so it’s going to be a very interesting day to say the least. Our organiser hasn’t been able to spend any time with his partner while she works hard on the frontline, so this is something he hopes will help and we all want to support that.

“I’ve been training hard when I get the chance, cycling is something I’ve always loved to do – including previously cycling to and from work – and it’s great to try and make a difference.”

The route will include Cannock Chase and will end back in Walmley. The provisional date, which depends on restrictions, is 4th July.

To contribute towards the team’s target – they have already raised more than £600 – visit https://bit.ly/3eTkVkb