17 Nov 2022
Jonathan Driver, a member of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, cycled 350km over 29 September – 1 October as part of the livery’s 350th anniversary.
The cycle ride from London to Schiedam in The Netherlands saw 11 individuals participate, each of whom chose a charity to support. The overall funds raised were then split 50:50 between The Lord Mayor’s Appeal and the individually-chosen charities.
The Lord Mayor at the time, Vincent Keavney, waved off the cyclists from Mansion House in London, alongside Pete Driver – one of London’s Air Ambulance’s pilots and also Jonathan’s brother.
“My brother came that morning to make sure I definitely set off!” laughed Jonathan. “I only started cycling in March 2020, and a mile and a half would leave me ruined! Last year I managed 134km in one day and that was pretty hardcore, so a bit of training definitely went into this ride!”
The ride saw a route of 80 miles on day one, down to Dover, which included 2,000m of elevation. The team then caught the ferry to France and the route carried on through northern France, Belgium and into Holland.
“To get back on the bike when you’ve cycled so much on the previous day can be a bit punchy. But when you’re riding with others it’s easier. It makes such a difference having people with you and we’re all encouraging each other.”
Altogether, the impressive ride raised £19,600, meaning a donation of £1,250 is being given to London’s Air Ambulance Charity.
“London has been my home since university and I’m incredibly proud of my brother. Therefore when he told me about the Up Against Time appeal, I knew it was something I really wanted to support.
“I am delighted to be able to donate over £1,000 to London’s Air Ambulance Charity.”
Jonathan works for William Grant & Sons distillery, who last year supported our most successful fundraising gala, and in this event have matched Jonathan’s contribution.
We’re incredibly thankful to Jonathan and to William Grant & Sons for their support. After a few days of recovering, Jonathan is ready to plan his next ride.
“You look at the bike a bit different on the day after, but I’m haven’t been put off! We’re thinking about doing another ride maybe next year, potentially in Cognac in France.”
If you’d like to cycle for London’s Air Ambulance Charity, why not look into riding in the RideLondon-Essex in 2023?