Fundraising award for Cycling Scouser after ride home from China

Andrew Rogerson, The Cycling Scouser, has been named Individual Fundraiser of the Year by the Anthony Nolan charity. The Jaguar Land Rover worker cycled from China to Halewood in aid of the blood cancer charity earlier this year.

The Liverpool Echo reports how Rogerson’s support for the charity began with ‘Barrow for Marrow,’ a fundraising group set up by 12 friends who worked together at Jaguar Land Rover in Halewood and one of whose sons had a bone marrow transplant in 2013. Together they raised more than £30,000 for Anthony Nolan in less than two years.

In May, Rogerson flew to China with a one-way ticket and over the next five months completed the 10,000 mile journey home again. On his Just Giving page, he explained it would be, “Just me, my bike, and my tent.”

Upon his return, in October, the 30-year-old said: “There have been some low points. Cycling in 57 degree heat, falling down manholes, being chased by dogs. There are many. But I am not going to think about them today – just going to be with friends and family. It will be great to have a beer with them now.”

Rogerson raised over £20,000 through his efforts but said the trip was also about raising awareness of the need for bone marrow donors.

After presenting him with his award at the House of Commons at Anthony Nolan’s Annual Supporter Awards, Henny Braund, chief executive at the charity, said:

“He has shown extraordinary support and passion for our lifesaving work, which epitomises the ethos of our charity, one which is built on one person directly helping another.

“I continue to find myself inspired and humbled by the dedication of supporters like Andrew, who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to the charity.

“By supporting our work, Andrew has played a vital part in giving 1,200 people this year a second chance of life.”