Thirty-six employees from UK Power Networks swapped their hard hats for cycling helmets to take part in the Palace-to-Palace challenge, raising £9,149 for The King's Trust.
The team set off at 8am on a misty autumn morning, cycling 50 miles from London to Surrey. The money raised is intended to help tackle youth unemployment across the UK.
The King's Trust supports young people by providing opportunities, training and confidence-building programmes aimed at helping them start careers and build brighter futures.
A personal connection to the cause
For Cesar Ruiz, an energy data scientist at UK Power Networks, the mission carries special weight. The ride was the second fundraising event he has completed in support of The King's Trust; while studying in 2021, he received a scholarship that helped fund his education and pursue his career goals.
Ruiz described the ride as an unforgettable experience and a valuable chance to spend time with colleagues while giving something back. He said he was fortunate to have received a scholarship during his studies and that it means a great deal to now help provide similar opportunities for other young people, adding that he understands the position they are in and that such support can make a real difference.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust, celebrating five decades of helping young people develop skills, confidence and opportunities.