15 May 2025 Community

Big Cogs Take on Europe for The Kirkwood

This May, a determined group of adventure cyclists known as The Big Cogs will embark on an epic journey from Highburton in West Yorkshire to Hull, then across mainland Europe through The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, and Germany, before returning to Yorkshire. 

Over the course of 12 days, the team will cover more than 850 miles and climb approximately 25,000 feet, riding through some of Europe’s most iconic cycling regions.

But this journey is about far more than distance and elevation, it’s a mission driven by heart. The Big Cogs are cycling to raise vital funds for two charities: The Kirkwood and Mind. For many of the riders, The Kirkwood isn’t just a local charity, it’s personal.

The name 'Big Cogs' reflects their willingness to grind up hills using the easy gears (Big Cog), but it also pays homage to their local roots in Highburton, Kirkburton, Huddersfield, and the surrounding hilly areas. Many of the riders are from these areas, and they embrace the challenge of the climb, always ready to shift into those easy gears when needed.

We spoke to a few of the riders about why they have decided to do this incredible challenge and raise money for The Kirkwood.

“When I was 18, my mum was diagnosed with cancer,” recalls rider Lee Sanderson. “It all happened quickly, and it was a very emotional time for us. We came to The Kirkwood, and they were absolutely wonderful with her. The care they gave was incredible. That experience really stuck with me, and I wanted to give something back.”

Lee began raising money and collecting stamps to support the hospice, and years later, his commitment continues, now with pedals turning across Europe.

For Chris Farnworth, the ride has taken on an even deeper meaning following the recent loss of a close friend. “We recently lost a friend, Robin,” he says. “He was part of our cycling group, and even though he wasn’t staying at the hospice itself, he was receiving care through The Kirkwood’s community services. We’d already planned to support The Kirkwood before he became ill, but what happened with Robin made it all much more personal.”

The hospice’s importance to the community is echoed by fellow rider Tim Bennett, who believes now more than ever, charities like The Kirkwood need backing: “It’s sad to hear about their financial struggle, it’s a really sad time. Anything we can do to raise money to help an organisation like The Kirkwood is super important. It’s a very important part of the community. The truth is, the care still must be provided somewhere, cutting services doesn’t change the need.”

“We value The Kirkwood being here and we want it to stay here.”

Ian Noke, another Big Cogs cyclist and volunteer with The Kirkwood, speaks passionately about what the hospice means to the people of Huddersfield: “The Kirkwood is an institution in Huddersfield” he says. “Even if it hasn’t directly touched your own family, I guarantee you know someone, a friend, a neighbour, who’s been supported by them. It’s a place that affects us all, whether we realise it now or not.”

Ian has seen firsthand how much the hospice does, not just in care, but in creating an uplifting and peaceful environment. “You’d expect a hospice to feel depressing, but it’s the opposite. It’s bright, warm, and welcoming. Yes, there are sad things that happen here, but there’s a real sense of peace and even joy. It’s a surprisingly uplifting place to be.”

As the Big Cogs take on their physically demanding route, beginning with a 70 plus mile ride to Hull to catch the overnight ferry to Rotterdam, they carry with them the stories, memories, and hopes of everyone touched by The Kirkwood.

The team is calling on the public to support their fundraising efforts: “If you’d like to help,” Lee says. “Please choose a charity to support, The Kirkwood or Mind, every donation makes a difference.”

Together, with grit, gears, and goodwill, the Big Cogs are pedalling to ensure The Kirkwood remains a sanctuary for those who need it most.

To donate to their cause, click the link HERE and help The Kirkwood Support Life.