Independent optometry practice in 352-mile cyclothon for Cancer Research UK

Hakim Group independent optometry practice, Walsh & Bridle Opticians, raised more than £350 for Cancer Research UK after a 352-mile in-practice cyclothon in February.

The practice team set up an exercise bike inside the practice in order to complete their cycle challenge, which took place from 16–21 February.

A spare exercise bike was also available for patients and passersby to get involved in the fundraising effort.

The group covered 352 miles over the course of the week, beating their 293-mile target and raising a total of £356.63 in sponsorship and donations.

Walsh & Bridle Opticians is located on Felpham Road, in Bognor Regis, West Sussex. A second Walsh & Bridle Opticians practice is located in East Wittering.

Practice manager, Emily Ware, said the cyclothon was “definitely an ambitious challenge,” but that “it was great to see everybody getting stuck in and doing their bit.”

“By the last day it felt incredibly rewarding, especially with all the lovely patients we had encouraging us along the way, and we’re really grateful to have raised so much towards such an amazing cause,” Ware said.

The cyclothon was organised in support of the practice’s former owner, David Bridle, who retired in 2024.

Bridle, described as an “avid cyclist,” was a dispensing optician who had served the Bognor Regis community for more than 40 years.

He is currently also fundraising for Cancer Research UK, which inspired the Walsh & Bridle Opticians team to support him in his efforts.

The practice team also held a cake sale during the week, to add to their fundraising pot.

“David is a very well-known figure within the community and made a huge impact during his time at the practice, so it meant a lot to the entire team to be able to support him in this,” Ware said.