Industry rallies to raise vital funds to support grocery heroes
Last month more than 80 industry riders embarked on Pedal the Borders, a fully supported three-day cycle event based in the Scottish Borders from 15-17 July.
Teams covered more than 200 miles of challenging terrain, climbing over 11,000ft to raise more than £210,000 for GroceryAid. The funds will support GroceryAid’s financial, emotional and practical services, ensuring grocery colleagues can access the help they have earned when they need it most.
This year, Pedal the Borders welcomed its first-ever all-female team: The Speed Divas. The milestone entry into the challenge included GroceryAid’s Megan Harrison, alongside riders Amanda Bessant from Tropicana, Heather Kennedy from Nestlé, Lynsey Beat for Thistle Seafoods Ltd, Martha Browne at The Bart Ingredient Company, and Georgie Upton at Wild Card PR.
This year also marked the tenth ride for staunch GroceryAid supporter, Booker’s Andrew Thompson – who was part of an intrepid team of Booker, Tesco, Londis and Dunnhumby colleagues.
Alongside fundraising, Pedal the Borders has grown into a significant annual networking opportunity, strengthening peer relationships while connecting sponsors with senior decision-makers from across the industry.
The event saw sponsors and partner brands line the route with food and drink pit stops to keep riders fuelled, including headline sponsor Whitworths.
Kieran Hemsworth, GroceryAid CEO who also took on the gruelling challenge, said: “Pedal the Borders sees colleagues from every corner of the industry rally to raise vital funds for deserving grocery workers and their families. The need for our services has never been greater, meaning our fundraising initiatives are critical to ensuring we can meet rising demand and continue providing life-changing support whenever it’s needed.
“While some riders are seasoned cyclists, others were new to the event and had never pedalled more than 50km in training. It shows how formidable all teams were to conquer the hills. As we say, it’s a testament to the strength and unity of our industry. A huge thank you to everyone who took part, sponsored and supported us along the way.”
To learn more about GroceryAid’s fundraising events, including how to take part in next year’s UK cycle challenge – which will take place from Wednesday 7th July – Friday 9th July 2027 – visit https://www.groceryaid.org.uk/events/.
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