Consultants to hit the road for charity cycling event

Hundreds of cyclists will take to roads across Wharfedale in an annual charity ride co-founded by RSM on June 14. The 100-mile route will see riders raise funds for the Marie Curie Hospice Bradford.

One of the most popular forms of corporate social responsibility action in the consulting world is undisputedly the charity cycle ride. Seeing it as an opportunity to stay in shape, get some fresh air, and make the most of the all-too-brief British summer, consultants often jump at the chance of getting on their bikes in the name of a good cause. In the last two years, offices from across the UK have taken to the road from PwC, Mazars, and CBRE, and many more have accrued thousands of miles of travel between them.

The latest of these efforts will see members of tax and consulting firm RSM take to the roads of Wharfedale. The charitable event, known as the Wharfedale Ton, was founded by RSM alongside Yorkshire law firm Gordons and Lloyds Bank in 2016, and has doubled in size since then, raising £31,000 along the way. Interest in the event has also grown notably, with participation booming from 120 in its first year to 250 in 2018.

Organisers are hoping to attract even more participants and supporters for the 2019 event, contributing more donations to long-standing charity partner Marie Curie Hospice Bradford, which provides specialist care and support for people living with a terminal illness. Funds are raised through entry fees of £30 for each rider who will navigates the 100-mile scenic route – stretching from Ilkley to York and back – as well as additional donations from corporate sponsors, riders’ friends, colleagues, customers and suppliers.

The full Ton will see a number of those expected to take part having never ridden the 100-mile distance before. The route takes an average of six to eight hours to complete, after which all participants get to rest their limbs and join each other for some food and drink in Ilkley.

Speaking to the Wharfedale Observer, Gordons employment law partner Philip Paget – who first conceived the idea of the Wharfedale Ton – said, “We’re looking forward to another excellent Wharfedale Ton and encourage as many people as possible to sign up for what is always a great day of networking and fundraising. We’re incredibly grateful to the participants, individuals and businesses who have already made generous donations to this great cause.”