Hospice ‘hit for six’ by Matt’s cycle cash

The England and Sussex wicketkeeper-batsman successfully completed a 100-mile cycle challenge in aid of Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice, in April.

Originally he had set himself a target of £10,000. However, after completing the gruelling bike ride, hundreds of people nationwide were so inspired by Matt’s efforts he managed to more than triple his initial goal, reaching a whopping £35,896.

The cheque was then presented to stunned members of staff at Chestnut Tree House, who couldn’t believe the impressive sum of cash.

Speaking during the hand-over ceremony at the hospice, in Dover Lane, Matt said: “As a patron of Chestnut Tree House, I really wanted to do something to help the hospice.

“It was a tough challenge but the thought of the children and families who need the hospice’s care kept us going.

“It is really great to be able to come along today and to meet some of these very special children – their courage and determination to live life to the full, despite their illnesses, is very humbling and I am only too glad to help in whatever way I can.”

Matt set off from Winchester to cycle the South Downs Way with England wicket-keeping coach Bruce French – just days after returning from the test series in Sri Lanka.

Along the way Matt and Bruce faced about 4,000m of ascent and descent, and some tricky conditions which pushed them both to their limits.

It took them two days to complete the trail before finishing at the Chestnut Tree House shop in Eastbourne.

Linda Perry, director of children’s services with the charity, said she was thrilled by Matt and Bruce’s efforts.

“We are so grateful to Matt for his fantastic fund-raising. As a charity, and with only eight per cent of our costs funded by central government, we rely heavily on individuals like Matt to go the extra mile for us.

“The money he has raised is the equivalent of five days of all the care costs at Chestnut Tree House, both at the hospice and out in the community, and will really make a huge difference to the children and their families.”