New chairman of the Greater Haywards Heath Bike Ride, keen cyclist Mike Oliver, IFA and principal of Mike Oliver Associates, made sure his company team were out in force on Sunday 13<sup>th</sup> October for the local charity cycling sportive in its new autumn slot. As a sponsor of the event since its inception in 2011 and lead sponsor for the past 3 years, this is a job that Mike doesn’t mind being saddled with!

Organised by the local Sportive cycling team and Haywards Heath Town Council, The Greater Haywards Heath Bike Ride, now in its 9<sup>th</sup> year, raises money annually for a local charity – this year The Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity.  The sum raised on Sunday grossed £10,000 – a fantastic achievement given the terrible weather conditions. Comprising four routes, well-spaced comfort breaks, feed stations and a hero’s welcome on The Broadway, the race covered all the bases: a challenging ride for serious riders, mildly punishing for weekend riders and a great day out for the whole family.

The Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity (DVLCC) supports families with children under five with cerebral palsy and other motor learning impairments to realise their full potential. The charity offers these children a place where they can learn and thrive in a warm, supportive setting that understands their unique journey. Through its early intervention service and support network, the charity works alongside families to give their very young children the best possible start in life.

Principal Mike Oliver said: <em>“The ride is a great event. It’s fast and furious if you are feeling competitive, leisurely and fun if you’re not. It’s about team work too with all the  riders cheering each other on. Best of all, as a keen cyclist I get to do something I love in aid of a good cause.” </em>

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<strong>Note to Editors</strong>

The Greater Haywards Heath Bike Ride began in 2011 and is organised by Haywards Heath Town Team in association with Hayward’s Heath Town Council, with Ruth de Mierre being the Chief Organiser. Last year it raised over £16.000 for the Air Ambulance Service and Kangaroos, a local disability support charity based in Haywards Heath. Overall, it has raised in excess of £90,000.

Mike Oliver Associates has sponsored the Greater Haywards Heath Bike Ride each year since its inception in 2011 and this year was MOA's third year as a major sponsor.

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