A pair of local cyclists have completed a 278-mile fundraising challenge, raising £2,361 in support of Emmaus Hull & East Riding.
Chris Straker, aged 65 and from Hull, and Kevin Rennison, aged 64 and from Hessle, took on a demanding bike ride from Wick to Pitlochry in Scotland. The pair set themselves the challenge to raise funds for Emmaus Hull & East Riding, helping our charity to provide a home, work and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness.
Chris said: “It was a very difficult journey in terms of hills and some strong winds against us but seeing the money coming in to support the ride over the last few months made all the straining worth it! We saw some amazing scenery and tested ourselves. Thanks to all the sponsors.”
Chris and Kevin started their charity ride on Wednesday 17 May and finished on Sunday 21 May. The journey covered 278 miles, including 12,000 feet of climbing, in a mixture of Scottish weather including sun, strong wind and torrential rain.
Kevin added: “It was a really tough challenge and certainly out of our comfort zone. A lot of hard training went into this challenge over the past four months of cycling in cold, wet and windy conditions.
“It all seems worthwhile when you see people’s generous donations to Emmaus Hull & East Riding. I’ve enjoyed being part of the project and appreciate the support of the charity and the help they have given us in achieving this.”
Support from far and wide
Formerly homeless people supported by Emmaus, known as companions, live within our purpose-built community home in Hull and are offered the opportunity to gain skills, confidence and new experiences. Our charity also delivers an outreach service, providing direct support to people who are street homeless.
Chris and Kevin received more than 50 donations from family, friends, members of the public and local businesses including VIC Couplands and Restorative Thinking. The £2,361 raised from Chris and Kevin’s fundraiser will be used to support formerly homeless people at The Orchard, our community home in Hull.
Click here to support and donate to Chris and Kevin’s fundraiser online.