Rudridge employees set to cycle in memory of colleague

Two Rudridge employees are gearing up for the challenge of a lifetime to raise cash in memory of a much-missed colleague.

Paul Duke and Peter Burrell, from the civil and engineering groundwork specialists, will cycle from Paris to Geneva this September to raise money for the Stroke Association.

Their route, which covers over 320 miles, will include hairpin bends and punishing climbs, including the 1,323m Col de la Faucille ascent which has regularly featured in the Tour de France.  The five day tour will take in Paris, Sens, Semur-en Auxois, Dijon, Lons-le-saunier finishing in Geneva where the pair hope to celebrate with a pint by the lake.

Last year Rudridge employee Tony Marshall, described as ‘a great colleague and friend’, died suddenly after a short illness.

He had worked at the company for 14 years as a Senior Sales Executive. “Tony’s death came as a huge shock to us all,” said Paul, General Manager of Rudridge’s Farnham branch. “We felt we wanted to do something in his memory, and raise money for a worthwhile cause at the same time.

‘It’s going to be tough for us as we’ve never cycled in the Alp’s before. We have a strict training and dietary schedule which is getting us used to life in the saddle.  We have a target to cover 500km to 600km per month on lumpy terrain with a few long climbs in the Surrey hills. We will also be completing the Ride London 100 in July and other weekend sportives.”
Paul and Peter are hoping to raise £1,200 for the Stroke Association. To find out more, or make a donation, please visit their Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rudridgepeteandpaul