Rochdale to London bike ride raises over £36,000 for Gaza relief

Sunday, 17 August 2025 17:04

By David Murphy

Eight cyclists have completed a 240-mile ride from Rochdale to London, raising more than £36,000 for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

Eight cyclists from Rochdale have pedalled their way to over £36,000 in donations after completing a gruelling four-day cycle to London in support of Gaza relief efforts.

The challenge, known as Gears for Gaza, was organised by Unity Aid, a UK-based charity responding to the humanitarian crisis in the region. The 240-mile route took the riders from Rochdale to the capital, traversing towns, countryside and city streets, testing both their stamina and commitment.

The ride was created to raise urgent funds for food and essential aid as Gaza continues to suffer from what Unity Aid describes as a humanitarian emergency.

Speaking after completing the ride, participant Obydur Rahman said: “It was physically exhausting but emotionally uplifting. The support we received from the community was humbling and energising.”

Donations poured in as the group made their way south, with supporters tracking the team’s journey online and cheering them on along the way. The campaign had already exceeded its initial target at the time of completion, and organisers have confirmed that fundraising remains open in hopes of reaching an even greater total.

A Unity Aid spokesperson praised the riders, calling them “an inspiration to others” and saying: “Every mile they cycled has brought hope to families in Gaza. We are deeply grateful to each of them and every person who donated.”

All money raised will go directly towards providing food parcels, hot meals and emergency relief to civilians in Gaza, where ongoing conflict has devastated access to food, medicine, and basic supplies.

The Gears for Gaza initiative is the latest in a series of grassroots efforts from communities across the UK aiming to support international relief work through direct action and local solidarity.

To donate or learn more about the challenge, visit unity-aid.org/gearsforgaza.