We’re thrilled that Andy, Scott and Nigel, three colleagues from NRS Oldbury have successfully completed an epic 500 mile charity cycle challenge, riding from Oldbury-on-Severn Power Station in South Gloucestershire to Sizewell Power Station in Suffolk on a triplet bicycle, raising over £4,500 for JIGSAW Thornbury!
I have been astounded by the team work and determination of Andy, Nigel and Scott. What they have selflessly achieved is incredibly heartwarming and I speak for all of the team at JIGSAW when I say we are all very grateful to them and all the NRS team that have supported them along the way. Your team spirit is inspirational!
– Bonnie, Community Participation and Fundraising Lead, JIGSAW Thornbury
Whilst in the pub one night the team came up with the challenge, thinking about our charity and what challenge they could take on. Together they thought … we haven’t ever cycled to Sizewell that seems like a good idea!
We chose to take Scarlett and Bob on this “Coast to Coast” ride as we thought it would provide an unusual challenge. We we’re wrong! Although the three of us are experiences solo cyclists, riding Scarlett was physically challenging, especially when going up hills.
– Andy. Scott and Nigel, the Cyclist Team.
One incredible challenge.
Andy, Scott and Nigel are colleagues who share a passion for endurance events, teamwork and fundraising. Drawing on their experience and determination, the trio set out to complete the journey aboard Scarlett, their distinctive triplet bicycle, accompanied by Bob, the support trailer.
Setting off from Oldbury-on-Severn on Sunday 19th July, the team covered hundreds of miles across the country. Their route took them through towns and cities across southern England before reaching one of the challenge’s most memorable milestones – Buckingham Palace in central London.
The sight of three people on one bike, with a trailer in tow, generated huge amounts of interest wherever we travelled, especially in London.
– Andy, Scott and Nigel
The team continued through the night, stopping only briefly for a quick rest before pushing on towards Suffolk. As dawn broke, they were back in the saddle, determined to reach their destination.
The cyclists arrived at Sizewell to a warm welcome from colleagues, who were waiting to congratulate them on completing their incredible challenge. Whilst there, the team were treated to a well-earned full English breakfast, giving them the opportunity to refuel after their overnight effort.
Although the original challenge was to cycle from Oldbury-on-Severn to Sizewell, the team decided not to stop there.
On arrival to a fantastic welcoming party at Sizewell, we decided that we would ride back to Oldbury site. – Andy, Scott and Nigel
Having successfully completed their fundraising goal, they climbed back onto Scarlett and set off on the return journey to Oldbury-on-Severn, turning the ride home into an additional bonus challenge to raise even more money and inspire further sponsorship.
NRS and JIGSAW supporters cheered them on!
During the challenge Bonnie from JIGSAW Thornbury kept all their fans and followers up to date with frequent social media posts tracking their journey, courtesy of Scott’s multitasking of riding and reporting!
After their epic 500 mile ride they were welcomed back to their starting point with an incredible crowd of NRS team members and JIGSAW young people and staff. The supporters cheered them into site where they finished off the challenge by riding under the fantastic banner that the team made especially to signify their momentous achievement!
Following the completion of their ride, the team reflected on what had been an unforgettable experience.
After a total of just over three days on the road we arrived back at Oldbury Site to the most incredible reception. During the ride we were regularly checking the amount of donations that were being made and seeing people’s generosity was a huge motivator for us. We were also extremely fortunate to have great weather and to have no punctures!
– Andy, Scott and Nigel
Fundraising success!
Currently, the challenge has raised more than £4,500, with donations continuing to come in. These vital funds will help JIGSAW Thornbury continue supporting local children, young people and their families, while the challenge has also brought colleagues from Oldbury and Sizewell together behind a shared cause.
An absolutely phenomenal achievement, you have done yourselves, JIGSAW and Oldbury proud. Seeing you arrive back safe and sound has given me and the site a real lift.
– John, Oldbury Site Director
The NRS team isn’t stopping there. They already have plans for a Christmas fundraiser, along with more team wellbeing and fundraising activities throughout the rest of the year.
Add your support!
Every child and young person deserves the opportunity to discover their passions, build confidence and realise what they are capable of. Through this incredible challenge, Andy, Scott and Nigel are helping make those opportunities possible. By supporting their fundraising, you are enabling JIGSAW Thornbury to provide inclusive activities that promote movement, friendship, confidence and aspiration for local children and young people with additional needs and disabilities.
There is still time to support the team and help them raise even more for JIGSAW Thornbury on their fundraising page.
What challenge could you take on for JIGSAW Thornbury?
Choose your own challenge — sign up to run an organised event like a 5k, climb a mountain, cycle, swim, walk, or create something totally unique. However you do it, your challenge will help raise vital funds for children and young people with additional needs.
Sign up today by completing our online fundraising registration form. Once you’re in, we’ll send you a fundraising pack full of helpful resources and inspiration.
Online fundraising registration form link
Written by Bonnie, JIGSAW Fundraising and Community Participation Lead
