Charity triathletes smash fundraising target – but pledge to keep going

Fundraisers from Cirencester-based land and property agents Moore Allen & Innocent pledged to raise £10,000 for children's charity Winston's Wish during 2019.

And a Cotswolds-to-London fundraising triathlon pushed them over the finish line – with still just under half a year to go.

The triathlon, which took place on one of the hottest weekends of the year, with temperatures in the mid-30s saw the team cover over 100 miles in canoes, on bikes, and on foot.

First, they navigated 20 miles of the River Thames and eight locks in two-man canoes from Lechlade to the Oxfordshire town of Bablock Hythe.

The next day they cycled from Bablock Hythe to Weybridge in Surrey, a distance of 60 miles.

And on the final day they walked the 21 miles from Weybridge to Leicester Square in the heart of the capital.

They were supported by a number of local businesses, including Wild Carrot Bike Hire, Cotswold Canoe Hire, and Cutler & Bayliss.

Event organiser Roy Bowyer said: "The challenge was designed so that colleagues of all levels of fitness could join us.

"While a diehard core undertook the entire triathlon, others joined us for one or two of the events, or for shorter distances."

Stuart Milsom, who took part in all three stages of the challenge, said: "Completing the triathlon was a tremendous achievement with each discipline providing a significant physical challenge.

"The team really helped each other and we had tremendous backup and support along the way. It is so pleasing to raise such a large sum for our partner charity, Winstons Wish.”

Winston's Wish is a national charity based in Cheltenham that supports children and their families after the death of a parent or sibling. Established in 1992, the charity supports 40,000 bereaved children and young people a year.

Paul Moore, head of corporate and community engagement at Winston's Wish, said: "We’re incredibly grateful to Moore Allen & Innocent for taking on such an impressive challenge to help us give hope to grieving children.

"When we first heard about the 100-mile challenge we couldn’t believe our ears so it was great to see the photos as the team progressed along their journey.

"The money they’ve already raised will help us to continue the vital support needed by the 100 children who are bereaved of a parent every day in the UK. We really do appreciate their generous support."

The triathlon has so far raised more than £7,600. With match-funding from the firm, the total stands at over £15,000.

Still to come are the Big Brekkie and a quiz night.

Anyone wishing to donate to the fundraising campaign can do so at