The annual cycle tour round all 11 branches of Isle of Man Bank raised over ?4,000 which is being split between two local charities. The Tour des Branches is based on the exploits of local cycling star Mark Cavendish in the Tour de France. Staff members, together with customers and guests, faced a full day’s riding, covering around 100 miles in the process. Although somewhat saddle-sore the pain was eased by the fact that they had earned substantial sums of money, via their own individual sponsorships, for the Isle of Man Children’s Centre and Victim Support. Around seven riders launched the initiative in 2008 but this time the number was up to 30, including 15 staff. They started their journey at 8am from Royal Bank House in Douglas. From there the scene switched to the south of the Island, back to Douglas and on to Peel and Kirk Michael, taking in Andreas and Bride, before heading on to Ramsey, Laxey and Onchan, returning to Royal Bank House shortly before six o’clock. One of the organisers, Campaign and Communications Manager Matt Cory, said the whole journey, including stopping for refreshments, had taken just under ten hours with about eight of those spent in the saddle. Although there are no Bank branches in Andreas and Bride the cyclists covered a loop of the northern plain to bring the total distance up to 100 miles. Said Matt: ‘We split up into different groups, depending on ability, but ensured everyone finished together. All the riders completed the route and I am sure everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable day – even those who were taking part for the first time. Apart from one shower of rain we were lucky with the weather and even the strong breezes were generally in our favour. Also donning their lycra for the day were representatives of the two charities which benefited from the Tour des Branches. John Knight from the Children’s Centre and Paula Gelling (Victim Support) both completed the route, as did Isle of Man Bank Managing Director Bill Shimmins and Head of Premium Banking Ian Perry. The final total raised is expected to be over ?4,000 as several of the staff participants will have qualified for awards under the Bank’s Community Cashback scheme which recognises the efforts of employees raising money for charities. ENDS