Newcastle Man Cycles 3,300 Miles for Student Trip | BBC News

A support worker from Newcastle upon Tyne completed a 3,300-mile cycling challenge to raise funds for students with disabilities at the Percy Hedley Foundation. Garry Lee’s journey, equivalent to cycling from Newcastle to New York, aimed to finance a trip to New York City for pupils at Northern Counties School, part of the foundation. The effort came after Lee’s bicycle was stolen, but a replacement was quickly provided by Benfield Football Club, allowing him to continue.

Funding a “Life-Changing” Trip

Lee’s fundraising efforts surpassed his initial £1,000 target, reaching over £1,700. The funds will enable students to visit landmarks like the Empire State Building, attend a Broadway show, and participate in a cultural exchange program with a partner school in New York. For many of these students, this will be their first time traveling by plane, according to Lee. The Percy Hedley Foundation supports individuals with disabilities, complex learning difficulties, and additional communication needs. The BBC reported on the completion of the challenge earlier today.

Percy Hedley Foundation’s Broader Impact

The Percy Hedley Foundation, and specifically its Hedleys College in Forest Hall, has been gaining national recognition for its work in disability awareness. In March 2025, students from Hedleys College won the Community Project of the Year award at the British Diversity Awards, beating out organizations like the Elton John AIDS Foundation. As reported by ChronicleLive, the students developed a Disability Awareness Training program that has reached over 1,200 people, including schools, colleges, and businesses. The training aims to educate others about the experiences of people with disabilities and promote inclusivity.

National Accolades for Disability Awareness Training

The Disability Awareness Training program has received further recognition, being highly commended at the Employer Network Awards and winning the Disability Impact Award at the Charity Today Awards. Newcastle Magazine details how the program is entirely led and developed by students, utilizing their lived experiences to challenge perceptions and encourage open conversations about disability. The program’s success has been highlighted on BBC Look North, further amplifying its reach and impact.

The Financial Implications for the Foundation

While the £1,700 raised by Garry Lee’s cycling challenge is a significant contribution, it represents a small fraction of the Percy Hedley Foundation’s overall financial needs. The foundation relies on a combination of fundraising, grants, and local authority funding to operate its various programs and services. The cost of the New York trip for the students will likely be substantially higher than the funds raised through this single initiative. The foundation’s annual reports, available on its website, would provide a more comprehensive picture of its financial position. The Disability Awareness Training program, while not directly revenue-generating, enhances the foundation’s reputation and potentially attracts further funding opportunities.

Impact on Local Economy and Employment

The Percy Hedley Foundation is a significant employer in the Newcastle area, providing jobs for teachers, support staff, and administrative personnel. The foundation’s operations also contribute to the local economy through procurement of goods and services. The success of the Disability Awareness Training program could lead to increased demand for similar training services, potentially creating new employment opportunities within the foundation or among partner organizations. The foundation’s work also supports the families and caregivers of individuals with disabilities, indirectly contributing to the economic well-being of the community.

Challenges and Future Fundraising Efforts

The theft of Garry Lee’s bicycle highlights the challenges faced by individuals undertaking ambitious fundraising efforts. While Benfield Football Club generously provided a replacement, such setbacks can disrupt momentum and require additional resources. The Percy Hedley Foundation will likely continue to rely on a diverse range of fundraising activities to support its programs. Future initiatives could include corporate sponsorships, grant applications, and community events. The foundation’s ability to secure sustainable funding will be crucial to its long-term viability and its continued provision of services to individuals with disabilities.

Next Steps for the New York Trip

The immediate next step is finalizing the logistics for the New York trip, including booking flights, accommodation, and arranging activities. The foundation will need to ensure that all necessary travel arrangements are accessible and meet the specific needs of the students. A detailed itinerary will be developed, outlining the planned visits to the Empire State Building, Broadway show, and partner school. Parental consent and necessary travel documentation will also need to be obtained. Following the trip, the foundation will likely share photos and stories from the experience to highlight the impact of the fundraising efforts and inspire further support.