Transport team heads for the coast on charity cycle
A STOCKPORT transport firm has set itself a target of raising £5,000 for The Christie charity by taking part in next month’s annual Manchester to Blackpool bike ride.
The 13-strong team, which includes ten drivers, is led by Phil Hitchen, the boss of the Heaton Chapel-based bus and coach hire company, Belle Vue.
Former Christie patient, Phil who is 54, was treated for testicular cancer in 2011 when he underwent three months of chemotherapy, before being given the all-clear.
The mixed ability team will cycle the 60 miles from Salford Quays to Blackpool’s South Promenade on September 13.
This will be the fifth time fitness fanatic Phil, from Bredbury, will have taken part.
Unusually he also cycles back after the race, with the entire round trip taking about nine hours.
Phil said: “I have seen first-hand the remarkable work The Christie does to save lives.
“All team members have been touched by cancer in some way.
“The annual ride I do for the charity has grown with many of our cycle to work scheme members joining the event this year.
“We hope to raise much needed funds for this great charity.
“With business quiet during lockdown we have focused our energy on getting fit. The lads have lost weight, built up their stamina and really got into it.
“We’ve done some long rides out to Cheshire as part of our training.
“Cycling is a great way to get your cardio vascular exercise with the gyms being closed.”
Anyone wanting to support the team can donate on their JustGiving page www. justgiving.com/team/ BELLEVUECoaches.