Anderson bike ride raises £50k for autistic kids
24 July 2017
The Anderson Foundation’s annual charity bike ride has raised a staggering £50,000 for the National Autistic Society, with 150 cyclists proving that pedal power can make a real difference to young people’s lives.
The Foundation, which was set up by Chelmsford-based construction firm Anderson Group, will be putting the money towards the brand new Anderson School it has built for the National Autistic Society in Luxborough Lane, Chigwell. The school, for 128 children aged 11-19 with autism, is due to open in September.
100 Anderson staff and directors – joined by a mix of suppliers, family and friends – donned their Anderson-branded lycra and set off on the 55-mile circular route on June 10th, passing through scenic villages including Ingatestone, Fyfield, Hatfield Broad Oak and Pleshey. Cyclists were cheered across the finish line at Anderson HQ and treated to a barbeque, music and entertainment.
Darren Carter, a Director at Anderson and lead organiser of the event, said: “It was a warm, sunny day, although quite windy so that posed a challenge for some. Spirits remained positive and those who made it to the finish line were greeted with cheers and a round of applause.”
Ten teams took part, with several of Anderson’s associates committing to the challenge – including Iceni Projects who made up ‘Team Iceni’ and ‘Sons of Berkeley’ from Berkeley Homes. Several staff from Anderson teamed up with representatives from Hopkins Homes to form team ‘Spokes & Mirrors’ – who also won the fundraising quiz.
The National Autistic Society is the leading charity in the UK for people with autism and Asperger syndrome, and their families.
Mark Anderson, Chairman of The Anderson Group and Founder of the Anderson Foundation, added: “This is a great achievement for all involved – I’m very thankful to the cyclists who put themselves through this gruelling ride and to the staff who organised and ran the event so smoothly. £50,000 is an amazing amount to raise for such a worthy cause, I feel very proud.”
For further information about the Anderson Foundation please visit www.andersonfoundation.co.uk.