PEDAL power from a Frankton couple has generated almost £3,500 for Syrian refugees’ education after they completed two mammoth cycle challenges.
Sue and Tim Wilson tackled the 130-mile Coast to Coast ride and then the London 100 cycling challenge, both in July, to raise funds for Coventry-based charity Global Care’s Shack School project which supports refugees in Lebanon.
Tim said: “A massive thank you to everyone who has donated so generously to our little cycle adventure.
“Both events went really well, the weather held fair, there were no mechanical or physical problems, and we remained puncture free! We are so thrilled to have raised such a healthy amount for such an amazing good cause.”
The need for education is one of the most pressing problems for many refugee families. Working with local Lebanese partners, Global Care operates a Shack School – based in a simple tent structure, similar to those in which refugees live – in the Bekaa Valley, not far from the Syrian border. The school supports around 100 children with basic Arabic and Maths – they are learning how to hold a pencil, write their name, to count, to concentrate, and most importantly, they are being given hope for the future.
Tim and Sue’s fundraising efforts are part of the wider work of a group of local churches – the Draycote Benefice – who, along with Knightlow School, have committed to raising at least £1500 a year for the next three years to support the Shack Schools.
John White, CEO of Global Care, said: “Huge congratulations to Tim and Sue, who completed an amazing set of challenges and smashed their own fundraising target as well.
“We are delighted to be partnering with them, and their friends and colleagues in the Draycote Benefice and at Knightlow School. Their commitment to the cause will make a significant difference to the lives of some extremely vulnerable children, giving them hope of a brighter future.”
Visit www.globalcare.org/lebanon for more information.
