Cheers to the Rides: celebrating Transaid’s dedicated cyclists

23rd June 2025

On Friday 13 June, more than 30 cyclists who have taken part in Transaid’s recent cycle challenges joined the Transaid team at Doggett’s Coat and Badge, overlooking the River Thames, to celebrate their dedication to raising vital funds for Transaid’s programmes.

In glorious sunshine, Transaid Chief Executive Caroline Barber thanked the cyclists for their hard work over the years, impressively amassing over £2 million for Transaid to date.

Memories of bad weather, punctures, and encounters with local wildlife were shared, as well as reminiscing about old and new friendships.

After a tasty buffet lunch and drinks on the sunny terrace, awards (serious and humorous) were given out following a survey. Winners included Mike Wilson and Guy Heywood, who were recognised for their long-term commitment to pedaling for Transaid. You can read the list of winners for each award below.

Attendees also received a small token of appreciation for their efforts- a Transaid and bicycle themed enamel pin.

Transaid would like to thank everyone who attended on the day, and everyone who has made this incredible fundraising total happen- we couldn’t do what we do without you.

If you’re interested in taking on a cycle challenge for Transaid, sign up to next year’s Kilimanjaro to Coast 2026 cycle challenge here (announced exclusively at Cheers to the Rides!), or put yourself on the waitlist for Cork to Dublin 2025 here.

 

Award winners

Speed Machine: fastest cyclist over all the rides. Awarded to Rob Butchart.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Runway Rider: best dressed cyclist, and Best Bike Buddy. Awarded to David Berry (Bez).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wheel Whisperer: helping the most with mechanical mishaps. Awarded to Bryan Semple.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Wheelie Good Vibes Award: bringing the most positivity to every ride. Awarded to Gareth Banks (Banksy).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Tough as Tread Award: overcoming an injury and carrying on. Awarded to Neil Ashworth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best Rookie Rider: an outstanding newcomer. Awarded to Ross Wilson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best Comeback Rider: returning after setback. Awarded to Paul Norman.

 

The Tour de Transaid: the most miles logged for Transaid. Awarded to Guy Heywood.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Wheels for Change Award: showing long-term dedication to Transaid cycle challenges. Awarded to Mike Wilson.