Builders’ merchant Jewson is set to welcome riders in its seventh annual Tour de Jewson charity bike ride, which sees Jewson employees, customers and suppliers come together to raise money for important causes

The challenge will officially start on Sunday 24th September, with participants tackling a series of rides across the UK. In a change from past formats where the tour ran from John O’Groats to Land’s End, this year Tour de Jewson will see rides of varying length across the regions of the UK. Funds from the rides will be used to support Jewson’s charity of the year, Barnardo’s.

The 2017 event will also see the return of Ride for Rod in memory of Rod Leigh, a former Jewson employee and keen supporter of Tour de Jewson who passed away suddenly in June 2016. As well as encouraging employees to take part in a series of special rides from its Binley head office on Friday 29th September, Jewson will also purchase two community defibrillators from money raised.

Mark Rayfield, CEO of Jewson, said: “It’s great to see the return of Tour de Jewson and in its new format which will hopefully get even more people involved. Some of our employees are keen cyclists but others haven’t got in the saddle since childhood – what they all share however is enthusiasm and dedication to raise money for a great cause.

“As a business, we’re committed to supporting charities and community causes, but we couldn’t do this without people taking part in the challenges. Good luck, and thank you to all of the riders!”

This year’s routes include a 100 mile ride from Land’s End to Tavistock, a coastal route across North Wales and a cycle across Yorkshire from Harrogate to Huddersfield.

To donate, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tourdejewson2017donations.