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Two members of the J. Marr team, Helen and Stefan, are preparing to take on one of the UK's toughest charity cycling events as they ride more than 205 miles to raise vital funds for the Sailors' Children's Society.
This September, colleagues Helen and Stefan from J. Marr will take on the Bridge 2 Bridge Challenge 2026, a demanding two-day endurance ride from the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge in Dartford to the Humber Bridge in Hull.
Together, they will cycle more than 206 miles across rolling countryside, tackling over 4,400 feet of elevation, all in support of the Sailors' Children's Society, a charity that provides financial and emotional support to children and families from seafaring backgrounds facing hardship.
For Helen, the event marks a return after successfully completing the challenge in 2025.
Stefan, meanwhile, is swapping running shoes for cycling cleats. A keen and experienced runner, he only recently bought his first road bike, making this his first ever long-distance cycling event.
Supporting Families When They Need It Most
Founded more than 200 years ago, the Sailors' Children's Society has supported over 50,000 disadvantaged children. The charity provides practical help to families connected with the fishing industry, Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, ferries, cruise ships, cargo vessels and offshore industries who are experiencing financial or emotional hardship.
Donations help cover essentials, from household costs such as food, gas and electricity to school uniforms and winter clothing. Every pound raised through the challenge will go directly towards helping these families during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.
A Challenge Worth Taking On
The Bridge 2 Bridge Challenge is no ordinary cycle ride.
The route begins at the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge in Dartford before heading north to Peterborough on day one, covering 101 miles. Riders then return to the saddle the following morning for a further 105 miles, finishing at the iconic Humber Bridge after a memorable 206-mile journey.
While the physical challenge is significant, both Helen and Stefan know the real purpose of the ride lies beyond the finish line.
Speaking ahead of the event, Stefan and Helen said:
"I've always wanted to take on a challenge like this. As someone who enjoys running, cycling is something completely new for me, but that's part of what makes it so exciting. It's a fantastic opportunity to push myself while raising money for an incredible charity."
Stefan Williams
"I had such a fantastic experience last year that I couldn't wait to sign up again. It's certainly hard work, but the atmosphere throughout the weekend is amazing, and crossing the finish line is incredibly rewarding."
Helen Simpson
Please Support Helen and Stefan
Everyone at J. Marr wishes Helen and Stefan the very best as they prepare for this incredible challenge.
If you would like to support their fundraising efforts, donations of any size will make a real difference to children and families supported by the Sailors' Children's Society.
Thank you for helping Helen and Stefan turn every mile into meaningful support for families who need it most.
Please Donate Here
To make a donation please click below and you will be taken to the Just Giving Page for the Charity.