Wiltshire Council staff bringing back charity bike ride in colleague's memory
A countywide challenge will remember Councillor Jerry Wickham
A charity cycle ride, by staff from Wiltshire Council in memory of late Councillor Jerry Wickham, will return next month.
The event hasn't been held for the past two years, due to the pandemic, but this will be the third edition of the ride.
Cyclists from the local authority, and others from public sector partners across the county will take on 30 or 100 mile routes around Wiltshire on September 22nd, starting and finishing at County Hall in Trowbridge.
The previous two rides have raised around £7,000 for charity so far.
This time, the money raised will go to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which Cllr Wickham championed before his death, towards research for Prostate Cancer; and Dorothy House Hospice, who cared for Jerry at the end of his life.
Terence Herbert, Wiltshire Council Chief Executive said:
"Jerry was a keen cyclist, and we’re delighted to be continuing to honour his memory in this way. He was always striving to help and improve the lives of the people of Wiltshire and the funds we hope to raise will continue to help us and the charities involved to do this.
“We look forward to the event and hope to raise as much money for these two great charities. Anyone wishing to donate or find out more about the challenge can do so at www.justgiving.com/team/wiltshirecouncil.
“I'm looking forward to getting on my bike I’m sure Jerry will be with us on the day, encouraging us up those beautiful Wiltshire rolling hills towards the finishing line!"
Jerry's wife, Wiltshire Cllr Suzanne Wickham, said:
“The family is honoured that the council has renamed its annual charity bike ride in Jerry’s name and delighted that it will once again raise funds for Dorothy House Hospice and The Royal Marsden Cancer Trust – two charities that were dear to Jerry’s heart."