A four-day cycle challenge by staff from accountancy firm Old Mill in memory of a colleague who died last year has raised nearly £20,000 – almost double the amount they expected.
After Nick Baker, who took part in the two previous Old Mill charity cycle rides, lost a short and sudden battle with cancer last year his fellow employees decided to do something in his memory – and a bike trek together seemed like the perfect idea.
Sixteen of Nick’s colleagues from across the firm – which has offices in Melksham, Wells, Yeovil and Exeter – took part in the 207-mile ride from St Malo in France back to the Yeovil office, where they we greeted by colleagues, friends and family.
In 2014 Old Mill staff – including Nick – rode between its four offices and then the following year they stepped up a gear, cycling from Paris to Yeovil. Nick was also a marathon runner and had completed the John O’ Groats to Land’s End cycle challenge.
The Nick Baker Memorial Ride raised money for two charities; Yeovil-based School in a Bag – which sends rucksacks filled with stationery, learning resources and eating utensils to poor, orphan, disadvantaged and disaster affected children around the world – and Marie Curie, which provides care and support to people and their families with a terminal illness.
Marie Curie was chosen by Nick’s parents, while School in a Bag has been one of Old Mill’s nominated charities for many years.
Financial planner David Rice, a colleague and friend of Nick’s, was one of the organisers of the challenge in his memory while another colleague, chartered financial planner Duncan Parkes, rode his bike during the challenge.
David said: “Our third cycle challenge was a superb experience. The French countryside was truly an excellent place to pay tribute to our dear colleague Nick Baker.
“The comradery amongst the riders and the organisation of the ride provided by School in a Bag made the ride very memorable, and especially poignant to highlight the importance of getting the most out of life.
“Old Mill and the participants of the cycle ride have been blown away by the support and donations received. We always felt confident of raising £10,000, but to be on the cusp of raising £20,000 we are truly grateful and appreciative.”
Donations are still being accepted for the cycle challenge. To donate, visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/nickbakerOM
