Fundraising Event

In January a team of Durham Sixth Form Centre staff and students joined over 30 teams from across the North East for a powerful charity fundraising event in support of Benny, a happy and caring four-year-old currently battling neuroblastoma, an aggressive childhood cancer.

After completing treatment in March 2025, Benny sadly relapsed. His family is now fundraising in the hope of travelling to Rome for CAR T-cell therapy, a specialist treatment not currently available to them in the UK. Benny’s story has touched hearts across the region and inspired an extra show of community spirit.

Supported by Glacier Health and Fitness Club, organisers devised an ambitious challenge: a virtual bike ride from Benny’s home in High Shincliffe to Rome and back again- a total distance of 2,708 miles- shared across all competing bikes. The original  goal was  to raise £15,000 by recruiting 30 teams, each pledging £500.

A call to action quickly gained momentum. Social media buzzed with support, and the Charities Committee, alongside Year 12 and 13 BTEC Extended Sports students, eagerly took on the challenge. Participation was open to everyone, regardless of age or ability, and donations soon began pouring in via JustGiving.

At noon, teams began pedalling with purpose. By 4.00pm Noah Christon brought our team home,  over 72 miles had been completed- and collectively,  the teams had made it to Rome and back again just in time for tea.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of all involved, Jen Collins, Zac Perry, Katie Tsang, Daisy Reed, Millie Otteraway, Alfie Rippon, Ellis Fleming, Ollie Fleming, Noah Christon and all staff members, more than £50,000 was raised, smashing the original target.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, and watch this space for the next event—where even more people can get involved.