Thirty-six employees from across UK Power Networks swapped their hard hats for cycling helmets to take part in the Palace-to-Palace challenge, a 50-mile ride from London to Surrey in support of The King's Trust.
The team set off at 8am on a misty autumn morning and collectively raised £9,149 to help tackle youth unemployment across the UK.
The King's Trust supports young people by providing opportunities, training and confidence-building programmes designed to help them start careers and build brighter futures.
A personal connection
For Cesar Ruiz, one of the company's energy data scientists, the cause carries particular meaning. The ride was the second fundraising event he has completed for The King's Trust. While studying in 2021, he received a scholarship that helped fund his education and pursue his career goals.
Ruiz described taking part as an unforgettable experience, calling the charity fantastic and the ride a great chance to spend time with colleagues while giving something back to society.
He said he had been fortunate to receive a scholarship while studying, and that helping provide similar opportunities for other young people meant a lot to him. Having been in that position, he added, he knew that such support could make a real difference.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust, celebrating five decades of helping young people develop the skills, confidence and opportunities they need.