Record-breaking long distance cyclist Mark Beaumont went the extra mile for Scotmid Co-operative on Saturday (24 March) by taking part in a 12-hour instore cyclathon alongside staff, which raised a total of just over £2,500 for Samaritans.
Scotmid member Mark, who last year cycled 18,000 miles across the globe in 79 days to set a new world record, joined staff in the Stockbridge, Portobello, Inverkeithing, South Queensferry and Armadale stores to help raise funds for the co-operative’s Charity of the Year partner, Samaritans.
The Scotmid store in Laurencekirk also pedalled for charity and the six stores cycled a combined total distance of 2,318 kilometres (over 1,400 miles).
Mark said: “I’m really pleased to have tackled my latest challenge – the Tour De Scotmid, although this time all the cycling took place indoors rather than around the world!
“As a member, I’m extremely proud of what Scotmid does for our Charity of the Year partner – consistently going the extra mile in order to raise funds and making a big difference.
“Samaritans provide an incredibly valuable role in the everyday lives of people in our communities and the funds raised will help them to be there when it matters.”
Scotmid Co-operative Chief Executive John Brodie said: “The Tour De Scotmid was a great idea and the funds raised will help Samaritans to tackle serious issues affecting people in the communities we serve.
“Thanks to Mark for putting in shifts on the bikes at the various stores and to all the staff, who participated in a really enjoyable fundraiser.”
Static bikes which were provided by Origin Fitness were used by Mark and staff to cycle for 12 hours in a bid to raise money for Samaritans, the suicide prevention charity.
Scotmid has already raised £121,000 for Samaritans, funding 24,200 calls from people, who may be struggling to cope, since September.
The Charity of the Year partnership hopes to raise a further £180,000 over the next six months to ensure the charity’s 19 branches across Scotland can keep their doors open and are able to respond to a total of 60,000 appeals for help.
You can still contribute to the total by donating online HERE via Justgiving.
Or Donate by TEXT; simply text SMID70 and the amount you want to give, eg £5 to 70070
Please show your support for this vital fundraiser so Scotmid can help Samaritans to be there when it matters.