GT3 Architects staff raise more than £2500 in charity cycle challenge

Staff at an architecture firm got in the saddle to raise more than £2500 for two charities in a 220-mile cycling challenge.

A five-strong team from GT3 Architects battled the elements as they cycled from the company’s Nottingham studio to its Newcastle base in aid of Recyke y’Bike and Mind.

The intrepid quintet included staff from both studios, with architects Matt McCreith, Paolo Coyle and Luke Willett joined by architectural technologist Jodie Chapman and associate director Steve Mirtle.

They were supported by associate director Liz Clarke and technical manager Dan Skorin, who provided food and liquids and kept up morale.

Luke, who is based in GT3’s Newcastle studio, said: “We have such a great group of people here and it was fantastic to come together.

“The ride was not easy, the weather on the Sunday was atrocious and morale was quite low at one point, but after some much-needed food and a pep talk from Liz and Dan, we put our heads down and pushed through.

“Not many people typically want to arrive at their office at the end of the working day, but it was incredible to finally reach our goal and be welcomed by the rest of the team.

“Despite the weather, we all had a really good time and knowing we have raised money for two outstanding charities makes it all the better.”

The charities were chosen in recognition of the work they do to support mental health, physical health and wellbeing.

Recyke y’Bike is a North East-based charity that helps to address various social issues by saving unwanted bikes from landfill and recycling them to sell or give away to people in need.

It also provides training in a range of settings such as Deerbolt Prison, in County Durham, where young offenders gain vital technical skills refurbishing bikes, while building confidence and self-belief.

National mental health charity Mind was founded more than 70 years ago and offers information and advice to people with mental health problems and lobbies the Government and local authorities on their behalf.

Sara Newson, general manager at Recyke y’Bike, said: “We are delighted that GT3 Architects chose to support us.

“Our core purpose is to get more people cycling as it’s brilliant for the environment and for health and mental wellbeing, is a low-cost way to get around and is also really fun.

“I am pleased that GT3 understand the value of cycling and are supporting our mission.

“A massive well done to all of the team.”

GT3 Architects delivers projects throughout the UK, demonstrating particular expertise in sport and leisure, masterplanning and workplace design.

It has earned recognition for its innovative and sustainable projects in a range of sectors, including the mixed-use, entertainment, civic and residential areas.