I will ride 500 miles

A trio of Specsavers colleagues have completed a 500-mile fundraising challenge in support of Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP).

Colleagues, Adrian McCann, an optometrist director from Specsavers Cupar and Leven, David McGinty, an ophthalmic director at Specsavers Aberdeen, and Lee Penfold, retail director of Specsavers Richmond upon Thames, took on the ride from Bois in Essex to Holyrood Park in Edinburgh, completing it on Monday (9 September).

The trio hope to raise £15,000, with the funds going directly to VCHP’s Crisis flagship Skylight centres based in Edinburgh and London. At these centres, VCHP provides free eye care and spectacles to homeless people through clinics delivered by volunteer optometrists.

In June this year, VCHP opened its first clinic in Scotland. Based at the Skylight Centre in Edinburgh, the clinic was funded through a £50,000 donation from Specsavers. 

Speaking about the challenge, McCann said: “Participating in the London to Edinburgh cycle for Crisis for the second time is both a personal challenge and a deeply rewarding experience. The journey is tough but knowing that our efforts contribute to helping those facing homelessness makes every mile worth it.”

Penfold, who started cycling to work around eight years ago, shared: “The London to Edinburgh Crisis charity ride was a big challenge both mentally and physically. However, I enjoyed the experience as it is for such a worthy cause.”

To support the trio’s VCHP challenge, visit JustGiving.