Clia cyclists aim to raise £10k for Family Holiday Charity

Twelve cyclists from across the cruise industry will participate in a bike ride to raise money for the Family Holiday Charity (FHC).

The ride, which takes place next month, is an annual event organised by Clia, and will see participants cycle 10, 50, 70 or 100 miles across the New Forest in an effort to raise £10,000.

The riders are: Giles Hawke, Cosmos Tours and Avalon Waterways; Berne Carter, Oceania Cruises; John Fair, CroisiEurope; Dave Hearne and Carla Hines, both Royal Caribbean International; Stuart Level, formerly of Royal Caribbean International; Jenny Lyons, Virign Voyages; Marco Macchieraldo and Sam Redfearn, both Paramount Cruises; Tom Scott, News UK; Rob Scott, P&O Cruises; and Robbie White, Touchdown.

More: Julia Lo Bue-Said joins Family Holiday Charity trustee board

The FHC helps families in need to get away together, often for the first time, and if the cyclists hit their target, the money will enable 40 families to enjoy a short holiday.

Hawke (pictured) said: “Now more than ever families are trying to find the money for a well-deserved getaway, even if it’s just for a brief period of time.

“The current climate will only make things worse, so we’re really hoping that anyone who’s in a position to help will get behind us and make a donation to the FHC, no matter how small.

“Every penny raised really will make all the difference to the quality of life of people living with real hardship.”

Clia UK & Ireland manager Andy Harmer said: “We’ve been supporting the FHC for over five years now and together have raised more than £35,000 to support families facing the most difficult circumstances.

“We know just how vital is it to give access to the breaks they organise and it’s incredibly moving to hear the positive differences they make with our donations.”