More than 200 colleagues took part in our Relay Across the Region challenge, raising £7,000 for the charities supported through our Community Fund.
Our community fund supports 27 charities across the country, helping to tackle health and social inequalities.
Together, colleagues covered more than 2,000 miles through walking, running and cycling. From our most northern property in the northeast to our most southern property in Cornwall. Teams completed routes of all sizes to help raise money for local communities.
Here are some of the stories from our colleagues:
87 miles across the North East
This part of the relay saw 14 colleagues travel from Tweedmouth, near the Scottish Borders, to South Shields.
The team covered 87 miles by walking and cycling. A few changes to the route meant they travelled even further than planned.
Their journey took them past Holy Island, historic castles, a lighthouse, an ancient priory and miles of coastline. In total, colleagues spent 19 hours completing the route before handing the baton to the next team.
Surrey colleagues cover more than 80 miles
In Surrey, colleagues spent two days taking part in the relay and covered more than 80 miles.
The route gave colleagues from across the region the chance to spend time together while raising money for charity. There was plenty of determination, a little friendly competition and lots of support along the way.
As Kerry Theron, Business Improvement Analyst, said: "Beyond the challenge itself, it was inspiring to experience the beauty of nature and the coming together of colleagues from different roles and backgrounds, all united for a fantastic charitable cause. Thank you to everyone involved for making it such a memorable experience."
189,000 steps across Birmingham
A team in Birmingham brought together six colleagues who walked from Ashley Clinic to Albany Lodge, covering 13.1 miles each. Together, they recorded 79 miles and 189,000 steps.
Lisa Bentley-Lees, Estates Delivery Partner, said: “It was a great opportunity to get out of the office, connect with colleagues from across the business, and enjoy conversations that weren't just about work in a relaxed and fun environment. To top it all off, the weather was very kind to us, too!”
Rain, wind and 12 miles in the Peak District
In the Peak District, colleagues completed a 12-mile walk after it became clear a site-to-site route would not be possible.
The team faced heavy rain and strong winds during the walk, but completed the route and added valuable miles to the challenge total.
Katie Dixon, Office Team Leader: "The M3 hike in the Peak District involved blood, sweat and actual tears! There were so many moments when we wanted to give up, as the rain poured down and our bodies ached. Yet I have never felt closer to a team. We held each other up, pushed one another through the pain and supported each other like never before. An incredible day was had by all!"
Every mile completed helped raise money for the charities supported through our Community Fund.
Thank you to everyone who walked, ran, cycled, donated or supported colleagues during the challenge. Your efforts helped raise £7,000 during this challenge and over £40,000 since April.
