MAC Financial handed over a ?1,155 cheque to The Children’s Centre after one of the company’s staff took part in a Land’s End to John o’Groats bike ride. Steve Shimmin, who works as a consultant at the company’s office in Athol Street, Douglas, was part of a seven man team who completed the 910 mile charity ride in May this year. The funds he raised through sponsorship were matched by his employers. Jon McGowan, Managing Director of MAC Financial, said: "The MAC Group was delighted to support Steve in his fantastic achievement. Over many years, MAC has found innovative ways to sponsor and support a number of different charities and in particular The Children's Centre. We are very proud of Steve's accomplishments and very happy to match the amount of money that he raised.” John Knight, Chief Executive of The Children’s Centre, was also part of the team. He accepted the cheque from Steve Shimmin and Jon McGowan and thanked them both for their support and generosity. The five other members of the Land’s End to John o’Groats team were Jim Murphy, who works for The Children’s Centre’s Residential Team, Mark Humphrey, of Long and Humphrey Advocates, who is also a Director of The Children’s Centre, Andy Parker who is a personal trainer and Paul Warburton and Chris Palmer, who both work at Coutts. Paul Warburton and Chris Palmer raised funds for the NSPCC which is the company’s chosen charity in the UK. During the Land’s End to John o’Groats ride the team climbed a total height of 32,073 feet - greater than climbing to the summit of Mount Everest! The team were supported by two volunteer drivers Harry Eastham and David Whitehurst who provided essential assistance to the team. Cycling jerseys were sponsored by Shoprite, and the Bikestyle cycle shop on Bucks Road, Douglas, contributed energy bars and drinks for the trip. - ENDS -