6 September 2011
A team of staff from Epsom, Sutton and St Helier hospitals have pedalled far enough to get them to the Caribbean, as they took part in this year's London Cycle Challenge.
The team of 22 staff members cycled an impressive 4,374 miles over a four week period, burning off 218,700 calories (or 729 cupcakes) between them and saving 2,187 tonnes of carbon.
One of the team, Ben Bawden is a technical architect at the Trust (meaning he creates and develops computer programmes that allow us to store and track a variety of data and information) and is a keen cyclist. He said: "I cycle to work most days anyway, and this competition seemed like the perfect chance to get other people back in the saddle too - and of course, it wouldn't hurt to pick up some prizes along the way!
"I think the team did really well, and we'll definitely be taking part again next year. We'll be looking for even more team mates though, so we'll be asking our colleagues to get on their bikes too.
"I think cycling is the perfect way to travel - it's fun, it's cheap and it keeps you fit - so hopefully people will be keen to join us in the challenge. I also find it much less stressful than driving - I arrive at work relaxed and calm, and I think I have more energy too."
And for Ben, cycling from his home in Epsom to St Helier Hospital every day is a family affair. His wife Sharron also works for the Trust and his son Jamie, who's three and a half years old, attends the onsite nursery facility, Willows.
Ben said: "When we have the chance, it's great to cycle as a family. Jamie loves to travel in the child seat on the back of my bike and Sharon likes cycling too. Coming to work like that is really nice."
Matthew Hopkins, the Trust's Chief Executive, who is also a keen cyclist and pedals his way to work most mornings, said: "I would like to say a huge congratulations to those members of staff who took part in the London Cycle Challenge. They've racked up an impressive number of miles between them, and they should all be really pleased. I look forward to taking part in the challenge next year."
The Trust regularly runs events, such as free maintenance courses and training sessions for people who are thinking about getting back in the saddle and last year, received an award from the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, for helping and supporting staff to get cycling.
