Teams from Carter Jonas’ nationwide network of offices joined with cyclists from across the UK’s business community to raise a record breaking £16,500 for the youth homelessness charity LandAid.   

Now in its fifth year, the ride has raised more than £61,000 to date for charity. The money raised will go towards the renovation of empty and derelict properties. In 2016/17 LandAid grant funded four projects in Yorkshire and Humber, bringing empty properties back into use for homeless young people in Leeds, Hull, Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

On Friday 11 May, more than 300 cyclists representing more than 124 companies tackled the 80-mile Yorkshire Challenge or the 60 or 40-mile social route through picturesque Yorkshire countryside as part of the Tour de France legacy ride.

Organised by cycling experts Iconic Cycling Events, the Carter Jonas LandAid Pedalthon is championed by independent Yorkshire brewery T&R Theakston, starting and ending at its brewery in Masham. Regular food stops along the route showcased some of the best produce the region has to offer. Local food producers Yorkshire Tea, The Wensleydale Creamery, Heck Food, Appleton’s Butchers, Yorkshire Provender, Brymor Ice Cream and Riverford Organic Farmers were just some of the companies which supported the ride with locally sourced seasonal high-energy food and drink.

Yorkshire Pedalthon riders who completed the course received a medal and enjoyed a post-ride hog roast, together with a well-earned pint of Theakston’s ale.  

Paul Morrish, Chief Executive of LandAid, said: “Having ridden the course, I know from personal experience how tough some of those hills are.  We’re delighted and proud to once again be the chosen charity for the ride. On behalf of LandAid I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to all who tackled the routes, together with Carter Jonas for staging it. We couldn’t continue our much-needed support for young people facing homelessness, without such great fund-raising efforts and it really will make a difference. Thank you!”

Mark Granger, Chief Executive of Carter Jonas, said: “The Carter Jonas LandAid Pedalthon has become a much-loved annual event where we come together with our friends in the business community to raise money for a good cause. Thank you to all who helped to make this years’ Carter Jonas LandAid Pedalthon the best yet. The goodwill of all those involved – from sponsors and supporters to food producers - helps us to achieve a positive and lasting impact on the lives of so many young people.”