Hereford’s St Michael’s Hospice has scored a major sponsorship deal for their annual Wheelie Big Cycle event with a leading Volkswagen motor group.
South Hereford Garages, have not only committed to sponsoring the event for the next three years, but employees have also signed up to take part in the challenge which takes place next Sunday 20th July to raise money for the hospice.
Members of the Volkswagen commercial vehicle and passenger car teams including brand manager, Charles Richards, are taking part in the Wheelie Big Cycle event to raise cash for the hospice in memory of their work colleague who passed away in April.
Speaking of the hospice, Charles said: “Our head receptionist, Sam, sadly passed away from Cancer recently. It was a huge shock for everyone at South Hereford Garages and we are still trying to come to terms with it.”
“Shortly before she passed away, myself and members of our team visited her at St Michael’s Hospice. She was so appreciative of the facility, the staff and the whole ambience of the place along with the ongoing support they offered to her family.”
The untimely death of their colleague spurred the team on to celebrate her life by raising money to support the hospice.
St Michael’s Hospice, based in Bartestree, was launched 30 years ago and is the main provider of specialist palliative care in Herefordshire. Each year the facility relies largely on donations and community funding to deliver support for over 1300 patients and their loved ones.
Ruth Denison, head of fundraising at St Michael’s Hospice, said: “It’s great to have a major local business supporting St Michael’s Hospice.
“Our vision is to help provide care and support to over 13,000 patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families in and around Hereford.
“The commitment and enthusiasm of organisations such as South Hereford Garages is vital in enabling us to continue to operate our services. We are delighted that they decided to commit to supporting us for three years and wish them every success with their fundraising.”
Charles added: “We are delighted to be associated with such a great cause. St Michael’s Hospice has never been more important to us and we will continue to raise funds for them over the next few years.”
If you would like to support the Volkswagen team please call 01432 376200.