Rowleys Managing Partner Raises £35,000
Added by Love Business East Midlands | 26 June 2026
UPDATED: 30 June 2026
Rowleys managing partner completes 1,000-mile charity cycle challenge and raises more than £35,000 for cancer charities
A Leicester business leader has successfully completed a gruelling 1,000-mile cycle ride from Land's End to John O'Groats, raising more than £35,000 for three cancer-related charities inspired by his daughter's cancer journey.
Tom Copson, Managing Partner at Rowleys, crossed the finish line after nine consecutive days in the saddle as part of the "Pedal for PROTONS, CARE and HOPE" challenge, covering the length of the UK alongside a team of fellow riders.
The challenge was inspired by Tom's daughter, who was diagnosed with an extremely rare and aggressive form of cancer for a child at just nine years old.
Following her diagnosis in 2023, she underwent multiple major surgeries, intensive treatment and proton therapy in Manchester. Throughout her treatment, Tom and his family experienced first-hand the vital support provided by charities helping children and families facing cancer. She is now in recovery dealing with the ongoing impact as a result of this but thanks to all of the amazing treatment living a largely normal life.
Together, the team has now raised more than £35,000 for three charities supporting cancer treatment, research and patient care:
- HOPE – supporting cancer prevention and global clinical trials
- CARE – supporting Manchester Children's Hospital – the busiest in the country
- PROTONS – supporting access to proton therapy treatment, helping reduce cancer recurrence and long-term side effects
Tom said:
"Completing the challenge was one of the toughest things I've ever done, both physically and mentally, but crossing the finish line made every mile worthwhile.
"There were moments when it was incredibly difficult, but throughout the ride I kept thinking about the difference every penny will make. Compared to the challenges faced by children undergoing cancer treatment and their families, a few tough days on a bike felt insignificant.
"The support we've received has been overwhelming. I'd like to thank everyone who has donated, sponsored us, shared our story or cheered us on along the way. Raising more than £35,000 for these incredible charities is something we're all immensely proud of."
Rowleys supported the challenge as principal sponsor, alongside corporate sponsors Vallabh Associates Limited, DFK UK & Ireland, Palmers Garden Centres, Dow Schofield Watts Corporate Finance Midlands, Gunnercooke, County Asset Finance Limited and Mitchian Group.
The fundraising total was boosted by a charity raffle organised by Rowleys, featuring prizes donated by Flogas, including a Leicester Tigers hospitality experience and a Campingaz barbecue package. In addition to this, SGL Accountancy arranged a raffle prize for a 4 person tour of the King Power Stadium, which also contributed.
Tom added:
"The charities we are supporting play an important role in improving outcomes for people affected by cancer, funding research, supporting treatment and helping families during some of the most difficult times of their lives. We're grateful to everyone who has helped us support their work."
Although the challenge is complete, donations remain open, with the team hoping to increase the fundraising total even further in the coming weeks.
To support the fundraising effort, visit: https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/11402/pedal-for-protons-care-and-hope/
