More than 100 Aviva employees from across Yorkshire are preparing to take on a cycling challenge to raise vital funds for York Against Cancer.
On Thursday 25 September 2025, riders will set off from Aviva’s Wellington Row office in York, choosing from four different routes through the Yorkshire countryside.
Distances range from 25km to 150km, offering something for cyclists of all abilities.
York Against Cancer is a local charity providing essential support to people affected by cancer across York, North and East Yorkshire.
Organisers have already raised £25,000 ahead of the challenge, with Aviva pledging to match up to £1,000 of donations per colleague. Last year York colleagues raised £39,000 with a matched donation last year.
Events like this bring Aviva colleagues together with purpose — strengthening community ties and supporting wellbeing in a way that’s both energising and impactful.
The funds will go directly to York Against Cancer, helping to fund a range of support services for cancer patients and their loved ones, education initiatives and pioneering cancer research in the region.
Every £1,000 raised could fund respite breaks for four families, giving cancer patients and their loved ones a chance to take a break away, while every £25,000 could fund a year of minibus transport to radiotherapy appointments in Leeds, taking the worries of lifts, fuel and parking costs away from cancer patients.
Sally Dillon, Aviva’s Community Ambassador in York, said: “Cancer is a reality that touches countless lives in York, and we’re honoured to support York Against Cancer again through this year’s Cycle Challenge. It’s a meaningful opportunity to raise essential funds while also championing greener ways to travel around Yorkshire.
“Events like this bring Aviva colleagues together with purpose — strengthening community ties and supporting wellbeing in a way that’s both energising and impactful.”
Julie Russell, CEO from York Against Cancer, added: “We are so grateful to colleagues at Aviva for taking part in the York Cycling Challenge and fundraising for York Against Cancer again this year. As a charity, we rely on the kindness and generosity of individuals and businesses to keep doing all we can to support cancer patients and their loved ones in our region, to ensure no-one has to face cancer alone.
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