We are very grateful to Claire Lomas, an nsif patron and prolific fundraiser who has, over the course of the year, raised a total of over £23,000 for the charity through completing a number of challenges and events.
Claire started the year off taking to the skies and successfully completing her pilot’s licence. She hopes one day to use this new skill to complete a fundraising challenge (watch this space). In the meantime, Claire has been raising money by asking for sponsorship from businesses in return for having their company logos added to her flying suit and helmet that she wears every time she flies.
Later in the year Claire also completed both the Great North Run and Great South Run in her day wheel-chair, joined by her husband and a friend in spare wheel-chairs. The team were also accompanied by a number of other runners (and walkers), some friends and others who had been inspired by Claire after hearing her speak at their various company events throughout the year.
September of this year also saw Claire’s 8th annual motorbike ride-out event take place.
Having never ridden a motorbike before her horse riding accident in 2007 which left her with an SCI, Claire was offered the opportunity to learn to ride a motorbike, through an organisation that helped injured riders get back on their bikes and ride again. After a wobbly start, Claire was soon riding on her own and then successfully completed her ACU licence enabling her to race on tracks. She has gone on to complete numerous track days and hopes one day to complete a lap of the Isle of Man TT.
Off the back of her achievement, Claire decided to organise an annual charity ride-out which is now in its 8th year. Over 100 riders turned up this year to ride the course that begins at Wistow Rural Centre cafe, where guests are treated to bacon rolls and coffee, before heading off and weaving their way through the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, ending near Melton Mowbray, where a hog-roast, cakes and various refreshments were on offer in the idyllic setting of Eye Kettleby Lakes.
£1300 was raised for nsif though a combination of donations made to join the ride out and a raffle that is drawn on the day.
We wait in eager anticipation to see what challenges 2023 brings for Claire.
