News

Biking the Boundaries

1st August 2017

On a grey day in late June, three intrepid bikers – Stuart, Alex and Matthew Brundritt – set out to cycle around the whole of Greenwich. The route started and finished at the foodbank’s warehouse, following a carefully designed path along the boundaries of the borough.

Cycling over 30 miles on their journey, the trio raised a stunning £1,000 for the Greenwich Foodbank at a time when more people than ever are coming to its doors. We are seeing a 18% increase in referrals compared to last year.

The idea of “biking the boundaries” was inspired by the theft of the foodbank’s van and the group’s desire to raise money in response to it.  The challenge itself seems to be the first of its kind in Greenwich. Stuart, leader of the expedition and Warehouse Manager at the foodbank, meticulously planned the route weeks in advance, poring over local maps and riding out on several planning expeditions.

“Preparing for the fundraising itself wasn’t hard. The Trussell Trust had event templates and the foodbank has a JustGiving account so people can give directly… I really enjoyed piecing together the route” Stuart enthused.

“The highlight was taking in the amount of fundraising we achieved. We never expected to raise so much. As we were cycling, we knew that every mile we were earning £30 for the Foodbank, which gave us a huge incentive to finish.”

Building up steam along the Thames path and racing across the Blackheath in time for lunch were two fond memories. The hardest part? “The hills!” Due to the nature of the challenge, it was impossible to avoid the constant ups and downs in Greenwich.

Nevertheless, Stuart, Matt and Alex arrived breezily at the foodbank warehouse, where the successful cyclists were warmly received with a medal presentation and welcome tea.

Big plans are already brewing for next year, involving even more cyclists to “bike the boundaries”. Watch this space!

If you want to fundraise for or donate to the Greenwich Foodbank, email: [email protected] for advice and information.

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