Pedals and Peaks: F. Ball Employees Tackle Bike and Hike Challenges for Charity
F. Ball employees have been taking part in feats of endurance to raise vital funds for causes that are dear to them and touch countless other lives.
Chris Cycles for Royal Stoke Children’s Oncology Wards
Production manager Chris Roberts was part of a team who cycled 68.7 miles from Newcastle-under-Lyme to Rhyl to raise funds for Royal Stoke Children’s Oncology Wards. This was in memory of Chris’s cousin’s daughter, Gracie May, who tragically passed away in February this year, aged just 4 years old, after being diagnosed with liver cancer in July 2024.
Adding to the difficulty of the challenge, participants had to use vintage bikes, with no more than three gears, costing less than £50.
Funds raised will go towards day trips for oncology patients and their families and purchasing iPads, audio-visual equipment and toys for children receiving treatment at Royal Stoke, as well as supporting other local children’s cancer charities.
Chris Roberts said: All 41 of us which took part in this ride, did it with pride and love for a very dear family member or close friend, it was an emotional achievement for us all, but we loved every minute of it. We are planning how we can top this for next year, to keep Gracie May’s name and memories with us forever.
Support Gracie May’s Dream a Little Dream: https://www.gofundme.com/f/gracie-mays-dream-a-little-dream
Dan Hardy Ascends Peaks for Cancer Research UK
Production operative Dan Hardy also completed the National Three Peaks Challenge with two friends in aid of Cancer Research UK, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon, a total of 3,064 metres, all in just 24 hours.
Commenting on his motivation, he said: ‘Each step we take is in honour of the people we’ve lost.’
Contribute to Cancer Research UK: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/3-peaks-challange
