Charity cycling duo receive fundraising boost from housebuilder

An inspirational cycling duo who are taking on a host of challenges by tandem are being helped on their way for the third year running by Lincolnshire housebuilder Chestnut Homes.

Team Daisy – comprising registered blind cyclist Mark Dickinson, from Boston, and his work colleague and friend Graeme Chilvers – is named after the song Daisy Bell, which includes the line ‘a bicycle built for two’.

This year the team is taking part in at least ten cycling events, including riding from London to Amsterdam and the first stage of the Tour de France route in Belgium in June, raising money for Prostate Cancer UK, Guide Dogs and the children’s cancer charity NCTLC Trust.

Chestnut Homes was the team’s first sponsor three years ago and has again given the pair £1,500 towards the costs of the events they’re taking part in. Over the past three years, Mark estimates the team has raised at least £24,000 for its chosen charities.

Mark said: “I’d like to thank Chestnut Homes for supporting Team Daisy again this year. Our biggest hurdle is that the greater the event we take part in, the greater the charity bond we need. We need to raise £7,500 this year just to cover our charity commitments without bike maintenance and kit costs. “Graeme and I would not have achieved what we have done so far and raised vital funds for charity without the kindness, generosity and continued support of Chestnut Homes.” 

Mark (48), who lives in Boston with his wife Louise and 12-year-old daughter Caitlin, was diagnosed with Stargardt macular dystrophyin 2009, a very rare disease which meant his eyesight deteriorated very quickly. He was registered blind 18 months later.  He said: “I struggled to cope with life and the transition but through cycling and my guide dog Dougal, I have regained my confidence and can now give back to others who need help.” Boston Utd FC supporter Mark forged his relationship with the housebuilder after meeting its managing director David Newton, who is also chairman of the football club.

David said: “We are delighted to sponsor Team Daisy for another year. Mark is a true inspiration and we are so proud to be helping him on his way as he raises the profile of people with disabilities and raises money for some incredibly worthwhile causes.

“We’re a company of keen cyclists so we can really appreciate the challenges that Mark and Graeme put themselves through. We’d like to wish them the very best of luck for their events this year and will be cheering them on all the way!”