Twinings staff in 24-hour cycling challenge for Alabaré

Staff at Twinings are taking on the cycling challenge to raise funds for Alabaré, a charity supporting people at risk of homelessness across the region.

Alabaré provides bedspaces for young people in Andover, where Twinings has its global headquarters and UK manufacturing site.

The challenge is being led by Michelle Woods and Michael Harris. (Image: Alabaré)

The challenge will take place on five spin bikes set up in the company’s on-site restaurant on Wednesday, June 17, and Thursday, June 18, with team members cycling during the working day.

The challenge is being spearheaded by Michael Harris and Michelle Woods, who previously took part in Alabaré's BIG Sleep at Stonehenge in November 2025.

Michael said: "When we first heard about Alabaré's work to provide safe, secure accommodation for people while also giving them the skills and guidance to build more positive futures, we knew we wanted to do all we could to support them.

"Getting involved in the BIG Sleep at Stonehenge was an inspiring and humbling experience, so now we’re even more passionate about the charity.

"As keen spinners, Michelle and I thought there was no better way to help break the cycle of homelessness than cycling our way to plenty of fundraising."

To reach their 1,000-mile target, participants will need to cycle at an average speed of eight miles per hour throughout the event.

The Twinings team has already raised nearly £2,000.

Supporters can donate to the fundraiser at justgiving.com/page/breakingthecycleofhomelessness24hourcyclechallenge.

Michael and Michelle are encouraging their colleagues in Andover to join the effort and inviting other supporters to contribute virtual miles during the challenge through personal rides or spin classes.

Andrew Lord, chief executive of Alabaré, said: "We’re incredibly grateful to Michelle, Michael and the Twinings team for their support of Alabaré and our mission to provide homes, restore hearts, and empower minds.

"We also know there’s huge power in the simple act of a cup of tea within our services, bringing calm, clarity and conversation to sometimes difficult situations, but also as a celebration of progress made and positive outlooks.

"Covering 1,000 miles in 24 hours is no mean feat, but I have every confidence that they’ll make it.

"I’ll be joining the team at Twinings HQ in Andover for the start of the second day of cycling, and I’m looking forward to meeting more colleagues to thank them personally for their efforts to break the cycle of homelessness.”