Bradley Stoke opticians raise more than £500 for charity with sponsored ride-a-thon

An opticians in Bradley Stoke has pedalled its way to success, raising £511 for Diabetes UK through a sponsored 128.5 mile ride-a-thon.

The event, held from 10am to 5pm, saw staff from Specsavers take turns on exercise bikes stationed outside the store, rented from Anytime Fitness Bradley Stoke. While the team completed sections of the challenge throughout the day, buckets for cash donations and QR codes linked to a JustGiving page were placed around the store to encourage contributions from customers and passers-by.

“We’re so proud of the team, they absolutely smashed the challenge,” says Specsavers Bradley Stoke store director Gaurav Patel. “It was fantastic to see everyone come together for such an important cause. Promoting a healthy lifestyle is something we’re passionate about, and we’re grateful to everyone who donated and supported the team on the day.”

The fundraising event also highlighted the vital role regular sight tests play in detecting diabetes. During a sight test, opticians can spot early signs of diabetes and related complications such as diabetic retinopathy. Detecting these changes early can help prevent vision loss and support better health outcomes.

Diabetes UK is the leading charity for people affected by and at risk of diabetes in the UK. Its mission is to create a world where diabetes can do no harm by campaigning for better care, funding ground-breaking research, and providing vital information and support to help people live well with the condition. The charity also works to prevent type 2 diabetes and strives for breakthroughs that will one day lead to a cure.