University of Greenwich Deputy Vice-Chancellors to cycle across Europe for charity
Professors Neil Garrod and Tom Barnes, both Deputy Vice-Chancellors at the University of Greenwich, will be cycling from Brussels to London to raise money for the university’s charity which helps students in need.
They will meet in Brussels on Sunday, July 4, where they will watch the finale of the second stage of the Tour de France. Their journey begins on Monday, July 5 and follows part of the route of the Tour de France.
The route will take in the picturesque countryside and stunning scenery of the city of Bruges, before finishing at the historic campus of the University of Greenwich, on Wednesday, July 7. There, the Greenwich duo and 200 fellow cyclists, raising money for a variety of causes will be met by friends and colleagues to enjoy a celebratory barbecue.
Professor Tom Barnes is an experienced cyclist. As a child he regularly used to cycle 60 miles from his home town to Lincoln and back to buy parts at Birkett's radio shop. Cycling was also the main means of local transport when he lived in Japan for four years. Tom is currently a member of the Anerley Cycling Club and takes part in club runs.
He says: “I am delighted to be able to combine my love of cycling with raising money for such a good cause. I’m looking forward to the trip over the North Downs into London which can be very nice, particularly the downhill part on this side.”
Professor Neil Garrod has an impressive track record as an endurance athlete – but on two legs, rather than two wheels having run from Rome to Glasgow. Although not an experienced cyclist, he says he is “looking forward to the barbeque and has been cycling to work irregularly to prepare for the ride!”
Neil says: “I hope to raise as much money as possible. A small donation can sometimes make a big difference to individual students’ well-being.”
The university’s Alumni Development Fund charity helps students in serious financial hardship, pays for books and resources in the library; and provides specialist equipment and support for those with a disability and dyslexia.
To sponsor Tom and Neil visit:
http://www.justgiving.com/Neil-Garrod
http://www.justgiving.com/thomasbarnes
Ends
For further information, please contact:
Lee Armitt
Press Officer
University of Greenwich
020 8331 9420
Notes to editors
Picture: Tom Barnes and Neil Garrod get on their bikes at the University of Greenwich.
The cycle ride has been organised by Right to Play. For further information, visit: http://www.righttoplay.com/uk/get-involved/Pages/Cycle.aspx