On Saturday 30th April, a team of Langdon Systems staff set out on a sponsored bike ride from our offices in Wigan, to our corporate HQ in Portsmouth. A ride of approximately 260 miles. The aim was to complete the ride within 24 hours and to raise money for the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

With the horrors that we continue to see unfolding on our TV’s every day, like most people, the staff at Langdon Systems felt really upset at the awful plight being suffered by people in Ukraine and wanted to show our support in a positive way. We felt that the best thing we could do was to raise money to help people who have had to leave their homes and lives as a result of this awful, pointless war.

A lot of forward planning, and a superb support team resulted in a fairly incident free adventure.

There were 5 “cyclists” in the team. Well, 5 people of differing experience who were going to cycle, and two supporters to navigate, drive the van, and keep order!

Age range – 25 to 58.

Weights from whippet to something a little more, erm, comfortable.

The plan was to set off at 11am giving time for everyone to congregate, but with the van to load, late arrivals and general messing about we eventually set off 45 minutes late.

There were many highlights along the way. A lot of laughter and banter. Weary legs and several very steep and unforgiving hills. No-one got lost thanks to great route planning, Garmin and phone apps.

We were behind schedule for the first 80 or so miles as we attempted to cycle in pairs. It soon became obvious that this was impractical so we changed tactics, became very efficient at change overs, and allowed everyone to cycle a distance that they were comfortable with.

Cycling solo through the dead of the night along single-track lanes in the deepest, darkest Cotswolds is a surreal experience.

Cycling through the North Wessex Downs accompanied by the dawn chorus, deer, rabbits and other fauna is magical.

Cycling up hills is no fun. Especially Mow Cop.

We made it to Portsmouth HQ in 22 hours. Miles cycled – 265. Elevation gain – 3560m

We’re delighted that some of our fantastic customers, our colleagues, friends, and family supported our efforts and we were proud to have raised £3001 in total.

All proceeds went to the DEC’s (Disasters Emergency Committee) Ukraine appeal.

Donations to the appeal go to DEC member charities and their local partners responding in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries.

DEC charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and across the border in the neighbouring countries. They are working to meet the immediate needs of all people fleeing with food, water, medical assistance, protection and trauma care.

We’d like to thank everyone for their support, kindness and generosity.

We’ll be doing something else next year…. watch this space!