Asda Larne colleagues pedal their way to £220 for BBC Children in Need

Asda Larne colleagues take on the challenging Bike-a-Thon for BBC Children in Need

Friday 13 November 2026

There was plenty of pedal power and community spirit at Asda Larne as colleagues swapped the shop floor for the saddle, raising £220 for BBC Children in Need in a charity bike-a-thon.

Six members of staff took turns cycling throughout the day, keeping the wheels turning for more than five hours as shoppers and supporters rallied behind their fundraising efforts.

The challenge, organised by the store’s Community Champion Gail Caldwell, ran from 9am until 2.30pm and brought together colleagues and members of Larne’s sporting community, all determined to make a difference for children and young people.

Local sporting clubs lend their support

The Asda team received some welcome extra pedal power from members of Larne GC, Larne Valkyries and Larne Hockey Club, who gave up their time to join the challenge.

Their support was particularly appreciated by Gail, who revealed that some participants had played matches the previous evening, while others were preparing for further sporting commitments later that day.

Gail said:

“A huge thank you also goes to those from Larne GC, Larne Valkyries and Larne Hockey Club for taking time out of their busy schedules to come along and get involved. I know some had played a match the night before, and some were heading off to another later that afternoon.

“I’m definitely sore after just one day of cycling, I have a newfound respect for anyone who cycles professionally or for fun!”

A community effort for a worthy cause

The bike-a-thon formed part of Asda’s wider fundraising activities in support of BBC Children in Need, which helps disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.

Alongside the cycling challenge, colleagues at the Larne store have been supporting the appeal through charity collection buckets and the sale of BBC Children in Need pens and badges.

Reflecting on the success of the fundraiser, Gail praised the enthusiasm of her colleagues and the generosity of everyone who contributed.

“We had such a brilliant day in store and I’m so pleased our bike-a-thon raised over £200 for BBC Children in Need. Our colleagues really got behind the challenge, taking turns throughout the day to keep the pedals moving. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated and supported us.”

The £220 raised is another example of how a simple idea, a determined team and the support of a local community can come together for a good cause.

Gail added:

“We’re really proud to support BBC Children in Need and hope our fundraising in Larne can play a part in helping children and young people who need it most.”