Rock staff saddle up for Cyclone challenge

Apr 29 2009 by Iain Laing, The Journal

NORTHERN Rock staff have been getting in shape for a demanding two-wheeled challenge this summer.

Scores of workers are practising for the ‘Northern Rock Cyclone’ in June, which will see them raise money for charity and enjoy taking part in one of the UK’s biggest cycling festivals.

Sponsored by Northern Rock as part of its ongoing sports and community investment programme, the Cyclone offers opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to compete in this highly popular event, which last year attracted over 1,900 cyclists and 4,000 spectators, as well as raising over £100,000 for North East charities, including St Oswald’s Hospice, NSPCC, Great North Air Ambulance, Cancer Research UK, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Organisers have already seen a dramatic increase in the number of entrants for 2009 and are keen to encourage other businesses in the region to join them.

Festival organiser Peter Harrison rallied participants and gave a little safety advice before they took part in the first of a series of spinning classes at Rock’s headquarters in preparation for the main event.

He said: “Today’s launch has been a great way of encouraging Northern Rock employees to take part, and we hope that other businesses are inspired to get a team of staff together and do the same. We’ve noticed that there are lots of participants registered for the event this year who work in the health service who obviously see the benefits of cycling as an exercise and are, of course, aiming to raise money for medical charities.

“The Northern Rock Cyclone gives the people of the North East the perfect opportunity to work together on something as a team, get fit in the process and most importantly to raise money for a charity of their choice.”

Northern Rock worker Brian Shepherdson said: “This will be the third time I’ve taken part in the Northern Rock Cyclone, and I really think it is a brilliant way of encouraging people of all ages and fitness abilities to raise some money for charities here in the North East.”

For entry details and further information on spectator activities, visit www.northernrockcyclone.co.uk. Deadline for all postal and online entries is June 7.