Andover Cycling Festival attracts Stannah sponsorship
The wellbeing of employees and the community is high on the Stannah list of priorities. So when Councillor Andrew Gibson broached the subject of sponsorship for a cycling festival the Andover lift company, who is one of the town’s largest employers, was happy to help.
Stannah Group Managing Director, Jon Stannah, explains:
‘We were delighted to help with the very first Andover Cycling Festival. That event encouraged families to enjoy cycling together and keeping fit. With an increasing number of cycle paths being created in the town, it’s an easy way to travel and exercise at the same time. We would welcome this becoming an annual event.’
Organisers Halo Sports were at the heart of the event and Harry Lodge from Halo was delighted with the inaugural event in 2018 commenting:
‘On a very hot Sunday in July, 224 cyclists of all ages and abilities turned out to take part. Guildhall Square was the start for each route and crowds gathered there to cheer participants on.
We planned four cycling routes from 65 miles to five miles, to suit all abilities and 170 solo riders completed the longer rides whilst 54 children and families chose the shorter, inclusive routes. I’m delighted to report that every single one of our cyclists completed their chosen course and so received a medal (sponsored by Stannah) to mark their achievement.
Everyone said how much they enjoyed the event, despite the unexpected high temperatures for an English summer. With everything going smoothly, due to careful planning, an army of local volunteers and a great community spirit, we hope to repeat the cycling festival in 2019.
Thank you to everyone who took part on the day and our special thanks to Stannah, Hampshire County Council, Andover Vision and Bullpitt Print for supporting us in such a fabulous event for the Andover community.’
The cyclists on the longest route were greeted in Nether Wallop with refreshments on the village green – an unexpected and welcome bonus and proof that you don’t have to be a cyclist to get involved.
Perhaps, with slightly cooler weather and an increasing number of cyclists in and around the town, the event can develop into a true celebration of the health benefits of both cycling and being part of a larger community.
To find out more about the event and for all things ‘cycling’ visit: https://www.halosports.co.uk/
To discover and plan your own cycling routes in and around Andover visit: https://www.mapmyride.com/gb/andover-eng/
Visit our news page to read more: https://corporate.stannah.com/category/news/