Published on: 02.08.22

Ride for Hughie cycle raises over £14,000 for Winchester Hospice in memory of Hugh Freeland

A team of four this July took on a 420km ride from London to Salcombe in memory of their much-loved Hugh Freeland, who sadly lost his life to bone cancer while a patient at the Winchester Hospice earlier this year.

Jon Swannell, Larry Young, Ash Hein and Hugh’s brother Charlie Gough have raised over £26,000 so far, funds which will be split between Winchester Hospice and the Bone Cancer Research Trust.

The ride took two days, over which the four were often joined by supporters and friends. On arriving at Winchester Hospice at the end of day one, the team were cheered on by many of the hospice staff, family and friends.

The remaining 281km was completed the next day, with the team crossing the finish line together at Salcombe, a place dear to Hugh’s heart.

Jon and Hugh had taken part in many fundraising events together over the years, and Jon has promised to continue fundraising in Hugh’s memory.

45-year-old Hugh spent his final few weeks being cared for by Winchester Hospice, and leaves behind his wife, Rosie, two small boys, Rory (5) and Rafferty (1) and many family and friends.

In order for Winchester Hospice to continue providing specialist palliative and end of life care, it requires support from the local community each year to raise the funds needed.

To donate to Ride for Hughie, please visit www.justgiving.com/team/ride-for-hughie, or to find out more about Winchester Hospice, visit www.winchesterhospice.com.

Jon Swannell, rider and best friend of Hugh, says: “When I originally came up with the idea of the ‘Ride for Hughie’ I had no idea it would become what it did. We have all been overwhelmed by the support from friends, family and complete strangers along the way and amazed by the generosity of so many people who have donated huge sums to both the Winchester Hospice and Bone Cancer Research.

“It was an incredibly tough challenge to cycle 420km from London to Salcombe in two days but the welcome we got from so many people, including many members of Hugh’s family, made it all worthwhile. It was a very emotional experience and I hope a fitting tribute.”

Maddy Thomson, consultant nurse for palliative care at Winchester Hospice, says: “We were so delighted to be supported by Jon and his team in what was an incredible challenge in memory of such a special person.

“It was fantastic to see the team in action at the end of day one as they arrived at our hospice and we’re all so grateful for the support and generosity this challenge has brought.”