Cyclists from Parkers Properties are preparing to take on a 200-mile charity challenge in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities UK in Oxford.
The fundraising event, named Tour de Parkers, will see staff cycle to all 17 branches in the estate agency group across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Hampshire and Gloucestershire.
A previous ride organised seven years ago raised just under £6,000 for the same charity. This year, the team hopes to increase that total and reach £10,000.
Leading the fundraising effort are Brendan and Lisa Kay, directors of Parkers in West Oxfordshire, which operates branches in Witney and Eynsham. They will be joined by colleagues from across the group, including Toby Phillips, group managing director.
The ride is scheduled to take place on 10 and 11 September, with participants expected to cover around 200 miles over two days, including an overnight stop.
Funds raised will support Ronald McDonald House Oxford, located at Oxford Children’s Hospital, which opened in April 2020.
The house provides accommodation and support for families whose children are receiving treatment in hospital, offering bedrooms, kitchens, laundry facilities, shared day rooms and outdoor space.
It has 62 bedrooms and supports more than 1,000 families each year whose children are being treated at Oxford Children’s Hospital, the Critical Care Unit and the Newborn Care Unit.
Lisa Kay said: “Our fundraising seven years ago coincided with the final months of its development.
“A few of us have a personal connection with the children’s hospital and Ronald McDonald House and it fitted with our desire to support a project that is close to us.
“We had no hesitation in deciding to support Ronald McDonald House in Oxford again this time with our fundraising going towards the vital work this charity does for so many local families.”
Brendan Kay added: “We are looking forward to getting back in the saddle later this year to raise money for a hugely worthwhile cause and one which plays such an important role in our local community.”
