As a charity RoadPeace relies on the amazing efforts of so many people who raise money for us to fund our vital services, often in memory of precious loved ones. We never cease to be amazed by the courage and commitment of those who think of helping others at a time of such personal grief and suffering.
Here we share two stories of fundraisers who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to raise money for us:
Ciara, for Eddy
A huge well done to RoadPeace member Ciara Lee who completed the Westminster Devizes Canoe race over the Easter Weekend with her friend Ollie Harding in memory of her beloved husband Eddy. Eddy had been riding his motorbike on the M4 when he was hit by a dangerous and distracted van driver, and tragically died from his injuries.
The race is a staggering 125 miles long and has 77 portages. The first 52 miles are along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Reading, the next 55 miles are on the River Thames to Teddington. The final 17 mile section is on the tidal portion of the Thames. The race is a severe test of skill, physical and mental stamina and planning.
An incredible challenge, Ciara and Ollie completed the race in 24 hours and 55 minutes and have raised over £20, 000. In a moving testimony, Ciara explains why she is raising money for RoadPeace:
‘I recently attended a support group run by RoadPeace. Before I found it, I had started to feel quite isolated. I was reeling from what had happened, unable to grasp that Eddy has been killed. The disbelief is still strong, but I felt so much comfort being around other people who have suffered similar tragedies.
RoadPeace is actively trying to reform the justice system, and help get justice for the people who have needlessly been killed. Ultimately what RoadPeace is trying to do make is the roads safer so that less people are robbed of their lives in this way.
She adds:
‘I should not have had to say goodbye to someone who had so much to give to this world. Yet somehow I have to move on from this, and am hoping that by backing RoadPeace, I will find some comfort knowing that less families will have to endure this pain in the future.’
Ciara has also produced a video about the challenge:
The Townend Family and community of Loweswater, for Christian and Niggy
This coming weekend on Saturday 28th April the Team Townend Pushbike Challenge is taking place once again in memory of Christian and Niggy Townend who were killed while out cycling in 2010.
Now in its 9th year, the first challenge took place in April 2011 and has raised an incredible £65,000 for RoadPeace. It has grown into a popular annual sportive event, with over 300 riders taking part per year.
The event is organised by Christian and Niggy’s friends, their brothers’ Richy and Robin with massive support from and local community. The aims of the day are to raise money for RoadPeace, take on a challenge, enjoy cycling and remember Christian and Niggy.
The ride takes in some of the most scenic and spectacular parts of the Lake District, as well as some of its most challenging roads, including the Whinlatter, Honister and Newlands passes.
You can find out more about the event here: https://teamtownend.org/
If this has inspired you to take on a challenge of your own please get in touch. We have a number of places in events coming up including Ride London, Great North Run, and the Royal Parks Half Marathon.
Updated on: 24 April 2019