West Midlands pair will ride from Stoke-on-Trent to Coventry to raise funds for CALM

Two members of a West Midlands business consultancy are taking on a 100km cycling challenge to raise funds for suicide prevention charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

UKSE regional manager Steve Grice and regional executive Mike Lowe will set off from Stoke-on-Trent railway station on July 29, passing landmarks including Blithfield Reservoir, the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Kingsbury Water Park and the Cyclists War Memorial in Meriden before finishing at Coventry railway station.

CALM, which is UKSE’s Charity of the Year, was established in 2005 and provides tools, resources and a dedicated helpline for people in crisis. For every pound donated, 75p goes directly towards supporting those who are struggling.

Grice said: “Our area spans as far north as Stoke-on-Trent, all the way down to Coventry, so when we discussed our fundraising challenge, this seemed like the perfect route, combined with our love for cycling. CALM are an incredible charity providing life-saving support to those struggling with their mental health.

“It would be fantastic if we could raise £500 for the charity.”

Passion for cycling and community

Mike Lowe added: “UKSE is committed to making a positive impact to good causes supporting the communities it operates in. We hope the funds raised will allow the charity to continue its incredible work.”

The pair have combined their love of cycling and networking through their popular Networking on Two Wheels events, which have been running since 2023.

UKSE, which is celebrating 50 years of supporting communities, provides strategic funding of up to £1m to SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford. Donations can be made at justgiving.com/page/uksemidlandsbikeride.