A two week charity cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats has raised almost £2,500 for automotive charity Ben while highlighting the support available to people working across the UK’s automotive industry.
BookMyGarage Sales Success Operations Manager Ollie Sanderson completed the 1,123 mile journey after setting off on 28 June and reaching John O’Groats on 14 July.
The challenge was undertaken as a way of giving something back to an industry that has shaped his career, while raising awareness of the work carried out by Ben, the charity that supports people and families working in the automotive sector.
Throughout the journey, Ollie travelled through towns and villages across Britain, meeting garage owners and industry colleagues who came out to offer encouragement along the route.
One of the most memorable sections of the ride came in the Highlands, where the changing landscape and wildlife left a lasting impression as he made the final push towards John O’Groats.
Along the way he spotted red squirrels, deer, lizards, snakes and birds of prey while taking in the dramatic scenery that stretches north through the Cairngorms and into the far north of Scotland.
Reflecting on the challenge, Ollie said:
“Like many people in this industry, I’ve benefited from the hard work, opportunities, and support it offers.
“But I also know that behind the scenes, not everyone in our industry is doing okay.
“Life can change quickly.
“Ill health, mental health struggles, financial pressure, or personal crises can hit anyone, often when they least expect it.
“Ben exists to support automotive people and their families during those hardest moments, providing vital help when it’s needed most.
“It felt like the right time for me to give something back.”
Despite the physical demands of cycling more than one thousand miles in all kinds of weather, Ollie described the journey as a reminder of just how varied and beautiful Britain is, from the rolling hills of the South West to the mountains of the Cairngorms.
BookMyGarage co founder Karen Rotberg praised his achievement.
She said:
“We are extremely proud of Ollie’s achievement and it has been a joy to follow his exploits.
“His commitment to delivering on this challenge is exactly the same as the dedication he shows to his clients.”
The challenge has so far raised just under £2,500 for Ben, with donations remaining open for anyone wishing to support the fundraising effort.
Anyone who wishes to make a donation in support of Ollie can do so at Ben – Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund: Ollie and crew do LEJOG (UK end to end over 2 weeks covering over 1,000 miles)
