In a moving demonstration of camaraderie, endurance and corporate social responsibility, four colleagues from the glazing industry.
Leigh Greenwood, Ashley Parkinson, Chris Wann, and Gareth Turner have completed an extraordinary 966-mile cycle from Land’s End to John o’ Groats. Dubbed the Handlebar Heroes, the team raised an impressive £22,947.08, split equally between Cancer Research UK and Andy’s Man Club.
What began as a personal mission quickly became an industry-wide cause, with Made for Trade leading the charge as title sponsor. Backed by industry names like MACO, Hyde Die Castings, Clayton Glass, Morley Glass, GFD Homes, and National Plastics, the team harnessed their business network to amplify awareness and donations, proving just how powerful B2B collaboration can be when channelled into charitable efforts.
“Both causes are very close to us and in desperate need of funding,” explained Leigh Greenwood. Ashley Parkinson added, “They don’t just run by themselves; funding is vital.”
Their ride wasn’t just about physical resilience; it was about using their trade platform for genuine societal impact. From heart-warming encounters with strangers to moments of personal triumph and exhaustion, the journey brought out the best in the human spirit and reminded the sector of its power to drive meaningful change beyond profit margins.
Certificates from Cancer Research UK’s CEO, Michelle Mitchell and heartfelt thanks from both charities capped off this awe-inspiring feat. And the best news? The team hints there’s more to come. “Something bigger, something better,” says Leigh. The trade world should be watching.
Powered by Generosity: Acknowledging the Heroes Behind the Heroes
Alongside their major sponsors, Leigh and the team extend heartfelt thanks to a host of incredible individuals whose support made the journey possible, including Andy Bruce of Yellow Jersey Cycling Holidays, A super guy, whose guidance was invaluable, couldn’t have done this without him!; the teams at The Elphinstone in Biggar and The Station in Alness for their generous hospitality; Maddy Scott at GSG Clothing for her exceptional design work and support; Sean from Mobile Sports Massage Therapy for his flexibility and expert care; Leigh’s niece Mia for creating the team mascot and fundraising at school; Gaz’s aunt Judith for her warm welcome and home-cooked spread; Ashley’s in-laws Jackie and Julian for hosting a memorable all-you-can-eat BBQ in Kendal; Kev from MACO and his family for their encouragement along the route; John and Ryan for riding alongside in their local areas; Nicky McKenna (CRUK), Dan Rowe, Andy Barton, Gary Martin, and Craig Simcox (Andy’s Man Club) for their on-the-ground and emotional support, especially Nicky, who travelled to Land’s End to see them off; the ever-committed Ian and the MFT Marketing Team for documenting the journey each day; and finally, the families, whose unwavering patience and support from planning to finish line made it all possible.
