A group of business people cut a dash through the rush hour traffic last week by cycling to work in suits to raise funds for charity. The Children’s Centre’s Suits On Bikes event – sponsored by Coutts Isle of Man – challenged notable business figures to leave their cars at home and instead cycle to work wearing a suit and tie. To take part they could either ride to work on all five days of the working week starting on September 23, or just on Friday September 27.
Those taking part included David Batey and Paul Warburton from Coutts Isle of Man, Nigel Clucas and Antony Aspell (RBS International), Richard Fletcher (Manx Telecom), Chris Darnill and Richard Cowin (both from Hansard), Neil Taggart (Chrystals estate agents), Juan Owens (Zurich), and Mike Kelly (First Names Group). Several staff from The Children’s Centre also took part, including Accounts Manager Sue Mitchell who completed all five days of the challenge. Funds are still coming in but it is expected that the event will raise around ?1,000.
John Knight, Chief Executive of The Children’s Centre, said:
“This was the first year we have organised the Suits On Bikes event and we’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part. The enthusiastic response we have received for this inaugural challenge – and the tremendous fundraising efforts of those participating – have inspired us to organise an even bigger and better Suits On Bikes week in 2014. A special thank you must go to Coutts Isle of Man for their sponsorship of this year’s event which included the celebratory breakfast at Noa Bakehouse, and producing promotional material.”
The celebratory breakfast was held on Friday September 27, the last day of the Coutts Suits On Bikes challenge. After burning thousands of calories pushing the pedals the riders enjoyed a well-deserved menu of bacon baps and coffee, and had a chance to meet their fellow fundraisers and share their experiences of the challenge.
David Batey, Director, Coutts Isle of Man, said:
“Coutts has a strong history of philanthropy and, with a substantial local presence on the Island, we strive to support the local community wherever possible. We are delighted to be involved in this inaugural event which will directly benefit individuals and families on the Isle of Man.”
Photo - Participants pictured at the Coutts Suits On Bikes celebratory breakfast at Noa Bakehouse.
