Cycling across WWI battlefields: Honouring heroes and supporting veterans
From 22 to 25 September 2025, Stephen Beechey and Robert Stone from our Public Sector team are taking on an unforgettable challenge: cycling across the historic battlefields of World War I in Belgium.
Covering around 300km, they are riding through the rolling hills of Flanders, visiting military cemeteries, reflecting on the sacrifices of fallen heroes, and concluding with a moving wreath-laying ceremony at the Menin Gate.
This is a real feat of endurance, but one that seems fitting in terms of remembering our veterans and raising funds for the Veterans Foundation – the chosen charity of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO).
This year’s challenge builds on last year’s, which saw Steve Beechey join the DIO in cycling around Normandy, helping raise £55,000, with every penny raised going directly to help veterans and their families.
Robert’s take on the journey ahead:
I volunteered for this challenge at my first team meeting in April – no one warned me quite how long the ride was! But now, with the date fast approaching, I’m embracing the adventure (and the lycra!) with excitement and determination.”
Robert Stone
Head of Public Sector & National Frameworks, Wates Group
We are passionate about supporting the Armed Forces – both at a company level, as with the sponsorship of the Blesma Channel swim and ongoing commitment to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – and on an individual basis, with all employee donations to this challenge match funded by the Wates Family Enterprise Trust (WFET) up to £1,500.
Track their progress and donate here.
