A team of 18 rode from TalkTalk’s London head office to its Irlam network centre in Manchester, starting on Friday 16 September and completing the journey this Monday. The route they followed took them from London to Thame and Worcester along country roads and through several villages.
Ambitious about Autism has worked in partnership with TalkTalk Business since 2002. The sponsored ride was part of the company’s ‘Give Something Back’ scheme to encourage staff to volunteer to help charities. The initial fundraising target was £10,000.
Jane Kuria-Ronaldson, Head of Corporate & Events Fundraising at Ambitious about Autism, said:
“We are truly inspired by how many TalkTalk Business staff went the extra mile and cycled from London to Manchester for us. Such a challenging and demanding ride shows how dedicated the company is to supporting children and young people with autism. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment and support and would like to thank TalkTalk Business and all of their donors who helped raise over £16,000.”
Raj Kalia, TalkTalk Business’ Director of Network Innovation, said:
“It was a challenge and the longest distance many of us have ever cycled, and will probably ever want to again! However, everyone involved was delighted to make this effort on behalf of Ambitious about Autism. Riding through some of the most beautiful countryside in England while giving something back to children and young people with autism was a real pleasure.”