Our Leigh-on-Sea team support Cancer Research UK with fourth annual bike ride

21 May 2026

On Saturday 16 May, our Leigh-on-Sea office, along with volunteers from across the firm, came together for our fourth annual charity bike ride. Now a much-loved tradition, the event is held in honour of Michael Hallybone, a founding partner of our Leigh-on-Sea branch, who sadly passed away in 2023 after a long battle with leukaemia.

Remembering Michael is at the heart of this day, and it felt only right to celebrate his legacy with a challenge that brought people together for a cause close to many of us. This year, the team planned a route that did just that, pushing participants while raising much-needed funds for Cancer Research UK.

Two routes, one cause

The cyclists took on a 44km loop through the Essex countryside, starting and finishing at St James the Great Church in Leigh-on-Sea. For those who preferred to keep things at a slower pace, a 22km walking route was also organised, winding through woodland, country parks and some truly scenic surroundings.

It was a bright and early start, with everyone gathering from 7:30am, fuelled by a mix of excitement and nervous energy. As the day got underway, there was a fantastic sense of camaraderie, whether setting off on two wheels or lacing up walking boots, everyone was united by the same purpose.

Partway through the day, both groups paused for a well-earned lunch break, a chance to rest, refuel and reconnect. It was a relaxed moment for everyone to share how the journey had gone so far, swap stories from the route and enjoy each other’s company.

A meaningful mission

The impact goes far beyond the miles covered. So far, we’ve raised almost £1,100 for Cancer Research UK, and the total is still climbing. Donations remain open for the coming weeks, so if you’re able to contribute, we’d be so grateful for your support. Every donation, big or small, helps to make a difference.

When I heard of the Walk/Cycle event that was being organised to raise funds for such an honourable cause, without hesitation I put my name on the list. I also invited our newest member of the tax team, based in Stratford, Emily Elliot to join: she said yes!

The initial target was for the walking group to walk 22 km and for the cyclists to do a 42 km loop around Essex, but we compared smart watches and concluded that we did approx 25km/45km- a lot. There were sore soles and burning muscles, but seeing the donations rise in the space of the few hours that we completed our challenge, it was all worth it.

It was time to explore amazing nature spots that we would have otherwise not seen before, and have conversations with colleagues and on topics such as family, hobbies, career, personal growth, future and more. We were blessed with amazing weather and a few pit stops for fruit and coffee on the way.

I am very happy with my decision to be part of this event and encourage colleagues to do so, when the occasion arises.

Adela Cebotari

Associate Tax Director

"It was inspiring to see the incredible support we received from the public throughout our journey. That encouragement gave us the strength to push on and to keep going!"

Joshua Kyprianou
Audit Junior

"It was fantastic to see such remarkable efforts from all involved raising money for such a great charity!"

Sam Stone
Accounts and Audit Senior

"24 km, one great cause! From pensioners to teenagers, everyone kept each other going during the cancer research walk. We also had Monty the cocker spaniel leading from the front all day, full of beans and probably wondering why the humans were so slow! A brilliant day of laughs, encouragement, and community spirit for an important cause. Proud to have walked it together!”

Kate Wiczkowska
Relationship Manager – Accounts

"Taking part in this charity bike ride for cancer research was challenging! Every mile reminded me why funding research matters and how many people are affected by cancer. This wasn’t just a bike ride; it had a greater importance of hope. The atmosphere, support, and determination from everyone involved were amazing, and I’m proud to have contributed to the cause."

Elena Ciobanu
Client Support Services – Accounts

Events like this are a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. It was a day filled with laughter, reflection and purpose, and one we’re proud to continue in Michael’s memory.