For Richard Gunther, taking on a 190-mile bike ride through Yorkshire and Humberside was about much more than the challenge itself.
It was a way to give something back to The Prince of Wales Hospice, after his family experienced the care and support of our team during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
On Sunday 23 August, Richard, alongside colleagues CM Andy Moore, CM Dan Halford and VI Andy Ellwood from HMPYOI Wetherby, set off on the Tour de HMP Yorkshire. Supported by Gov Tom Holland and CM Simon Knowles, the team aimed to visit all 14 prisons across the Yorkshire and Humberside area in under 24 hours.
Starting from Wetherby at 2pm, the team headed towards Leeds before making their way to HMP Leeds and HMP Wakefield. At Wakefield, they were greeted by colleagues who had come out to offer sandwiches, drinks and words of encouragement. After continuing through Newhall and Doncaster, the team headed towards Humber and then HMP Hull, the furthest point of their route. From there, they continued through the night, travelling towards York before visiting Full Sutton, Millsike, Askham Grange and Wealstun.
The support they received along the way became an important part of the challenge. Colleagues, former colleagues, friends and supporters came out to meet them, offer refreshments and wish them well as they continued through the night.
After 23 hours and 20 minutes, the team finally returned to Wetherby, having completed more than 190 miles and visited 14 prisons. But behind the huge physical challenge was a very personal reason for Richard to take part.
In April 2024, Richard lost his wife to breast cancer after 12 years of battling various forms of the disease. During her final hours, Richard and his two young children experienced the care and support of The Prince of Wales Hospice first-hand.
The Hospice team provided compassion, dignity and kindness when the family needed it most, creating a calm and caring environment during an incredibly difficult time.
The challenge was their way of giving something back and helping raise awareness of the care and support available to patients and families. The team has raised an incredible £2,832.50 including Gift Aid, which will help support the Hospice and the care we provide to local people and their families.
A huge thank you to everyone involved, including the riders, support drivers, donors, well-wishers and everyone who helped along the route.
Want to take on your own fundraising challenge for The Prince of Wales Hospice? Find out how you can get involved:
