“We have always shared a love for two wheels and when the clubbing stopped, we became born again cyclists,” said Sean, Creative Director at NexPay, our card payment provider for all our shops.
“Over the years, our determination to get fit, (along with the patience and support of our respective partners) led to ever more daunting challenges.
“We have undertaken two mammoth cycling rides for charity. On our last trip, Ben suffered a bit of a scare with a ‘coronary incident’ whilst cycling up a mountain in the Alps! His recovery and the death of my brother put our adventures on hold for a while. But, while sharing a cold beer in the late summer of 2025, we realised we missed the adventures.
Colin was looked after by St Luke’s at home, after being diagnosed with cancer.
“He fought hard for three years. Thanks to St Luke’s, he was able to spend his last few weeks at home, with his family and his loving and devoted wife by his side.
“Colin was a keen motorcyclist, and often rode on big tours. He was no stranger to a racing circuit either. It was not unusual for him to have three or more motorcycles in his collection at any one time. He worked hard in his day job as a plumber, and motorcycles were a big release for him. When his license was taken away, it really affected him. Still, before that happened, he manged to squeeze in one last track day, despite having been through a debilitating round of treatment. He was a tough man. I miss going on long Sunday rides with him. Motorcycling was our way of keeping that brotherly bond going.
“St Luke’s gave Colin’s wife invaluable support in his last months. They were there for Colin every day, too. He was adamant that he wanted to be at home for the end, alongside his beloved wife, and a stone’s throw from his bikes. He had his 52nd birthday just before he passed. I can still see the smile on his face as his Honda NC30 burbled away outside the living room window where he had his bed. We had absolutely no hesitation in choosing St Luke’s as our chosen charity. The staff are angels.”