More than 20 members of staff at Forres company AES Solar are gearing up for a sponsored bike ride to raise funds for health and wellbeing charity The Oxygen Works.
The team will set off from either Aviemore, Grantown or Aberlour alongside friends and family en route to the finish line at Spey Bay on 31 August. Money raised will help to fund transformative support services for individuals living with long-term and complex health conditions.
AES Solar, which installs solar panels for homes and businesses, began working with the Highland charity last year (2023) when they installed a solar PV system to help combat rising energy costs. The Oxygen Works has since been selected as AES Solar’s ‘charity of the year.’
Those taking part in the cycle can choose from three optional distances which vary between 18 and 56 miles.
Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director at AES Solar, said: “This is a great initiative and I am proud of the team that has come together to organise this event and take part in the challenge. The Oxygen Works do incredible work in the north of Scotland for those living with long-term and complex health conditions.
“Anything we can do to shine a light on this truly inspiring charity, and to raise much-needed funds at the same time, is excellent. We have everyone from seasoned cyclists to total beginners and the emphasis is on fun and making sure everyone completes whichever distance they choose.
“The cycle ride will be a tough challenge, however I am looking forward to what I anticipate will be a rewarding experience for a very worthy cause.”
Leigh-Ann Little, CEO at The Oxygen Works Charity, said: “It’s very encouraging and uplifting that so many people have signed up to take part in the challenge. The money we receive will support the provision of essential support services including oxygen therapy, cutting-edge physiotherapy and a range of complementary therapies.
“As a small team of only five at The Oxygen Works, it feels like we have a whole army of support around us and in the current economic climate it has arguably never been needed more. The support from the team at AES Solar has been, and continues to be, phenomenal.”
AES Solar has a proud history of fundraising challenges which include walking The Dava Way for SAMH in 2019 and completing the Three Peaks Challenge for the British Heart Foundation in 2018. As a local business it also focuses heavily on the community where large numbers of its workforce live, supporting organisations including local sports teams.
AES Solar have set a fundraising target of £1,000. To donate, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/aes-solar-sponsored-cycle