GWENT construction lecturers are gearing up for their annual charity bike ride in aid of St David’s Hospice Care.

The Coleg Gwent staff have raised thousands of pounds for a variety of charities over the past decade through their efforts.

Plumber Trevor Hull, aged 62, organises the Coleg Gwent Charity Bike Ride which takes in a 33-mile route starting and finishing at the City of Newport Campus and calling in at Usk Campus along the way.

Keen cyclist Trevor said: “We have about 12 riders who will be taking in the next ride. We have chosen to support St David’s Hospice Care again this year as a long standing staff member was cared for by the charity.”

The construction staff, among them plumbers, electricians and bricklayers, arrange a number of charity fund raising events during the year including a charity fat club to encourage cyclists to lose weight ahead of the ride.

Trevor said: “The Fat Club in particular is a great success with many people losing an appreciable amount of weight.

“Our ride aims to raise awareness of fitness and a healthy lifestyle and over the years has encouraged members of staff to get involved and start riding their bikes including those who haven’t been on a bike for very many years.”

Skye Lewis, of St David’s Hospice Care, said: “We’re thrilled that the Coleg Gwent construction staff have again chosen to support our charity and to promote health and fitness along the way.”