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Staff get on their bikes for charity

01/02/2008
Two University of Wolverhampton staff are getting on their bikes to raise funds for a local hospice.
 
Tom Hicks and Gary O'Dea, both from the Department of Learning and Information Services at the University, are planning to cycle from Wolverhampton to London in aid of the Mary Stevens Hospice, Stourbridge.Staff get on their bikes for charity
 
The event has been set up in memory of Tom's father-in-law Roger Brookes, who passed away two years ago and spent his last days at the hospice.
 
The pair are planning to cycle along the Wolverhampton to Birmingham Main Line Canal into Birmingham city centre, then join the Grand Union Canal and cycle a total distance of approximately 150 miles to London.
 
The event will take place from April 11 to 13, 2008.
 
Tom, 34, from Kingswinford, said: "Roger was diagnosed with cancer and unfortunately lost his battle against the disease. The care and support that the Hospice provided to both Roger and his family was truly inspiring.
 
"Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the work of the Hospice is that it relies solely on fundraising and donations to keep the Hospice open."
 
Gary, 36, from Tipton, said: “We have had a very generous pledge from the Chairman of Tipton Town Football Club, Bill Williams, in order to start the fund off and other pledges are beginning to come in as well – people have pledged £500 so far.
 
“We're also looking for some equipment funding or donations, such as spare tyres, inner tubes and lights, from local cycling outlets.
 
“Coincidentally April 13 is also the day of the London Marathon - you never know, you might see us on the telly weaving our way in and out of the runners on our bikes!”
 
A web page has been set up for donations and pledges via the Just Giving Charity web site - http://www.justgiving.com/rogbrookes

Further information

Picture:  Gary O'Dea (left) and Tom Hicks (right) in training for their charity bike ride.
 
For media inquiries, contact Vickie Woodward in the Press Office on 01902 322736 or 07973 335112.
 

For more information please contact the Corporate Communications Team.

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