Thirty-six employees from UK Power Networks set aside their hard hats to take part in the Palace-to-Palace cycling challenge, covering 50 miles from London to Surrey and collectively raising £9,149 for The King's Trust.
The riders departed at 8am on a misty autumn morning as part of a fundraising effort to help tackle youth unemployment across the UK. The King's Trust supports young people through opportunities, training and confidence-building programmes intended to help them start careers and build brighter futures.
A cause with personal meaning
For Cesar Ruiz, an energy data scientist at UK Power Networks, the challenge carried particular significance. It was the second fundraising event he has completed in support of The King's Trust, having received a scholarship while studying in 2021 that helped fund his education and career goals.
He described taking part as an unforgettable experience, calling the charity fantastic and the day a valuable chance to spend time with colleagues while giving something back to society. Having benefited from a scholarship himself, Ruiz said it meant a great deal to help provide similar opportunities for other young people, adding that receiving such support can make a real difference to those in that position.
The event also coincides with the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust, marking five decades of helping young people develop skills, confidence and opportunities.